Sperlonga

Sperlonga is a small coastal town in the province of Latina, in the Lazio region, roughly midway between Rome and Naples. Its historic centre, perched on a rocky headland, is characterised by whitewashed houses, narrow lanes and vaulted passageways typical of Mediterranean architecture, offering open views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. The town is flanked by fine sandy beaches on either side of the promontory, which draw many visitors from Rome during the summer months. Sperlonga is also known for the Grotta di Tiberio, a natural cave adapted in Roman times and reputedly used as a retreat by Emperor Tiberius, and for the nearby Museo Archeologico Nazionale, which houses monumental sculptures uncovered at the site, including the Polyphemus group. The town forms part of a stretch of coastline popular for swimming and seaside walks, close to other well-known destinations such as Terracina, Gaeta and the Circeo National Park. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers, supports beach tourism from May through to September.