Castel Romano

The ancient fiefdom of Castel Romano takes its name from the Romani family from Trastevere, who initially owned it. Later it was also owned by the Colonna family. During the seventeenth century it belonged to the Sacchetti with the title of marquisate. Purchased by Cardinal Giulio Alberoni, in 1731 he started the reclamation of the surrounding area, the construction of a grandiose palace and a church, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta.

Cardinal Alberoni bequeathed the fiefdom to the Collegio San Lazzaro of Piacenza, who sold it to the Carafa, who in turn resold it to the Congregations of Propaganda Fide and the Council.

In 1896, Propaganda Fide restored the damage caused by the earthquake of 23 February 1890 which had hit Rome and took over the castle, becoming its current owner.

During the Second World War the premises of the castle were used as an infirmary by the Germans.

World War II forced the College to close in 1940 and during the Allied landing in 1944 the Villa became a refuge for about 1,500 displaced people for a few months and finally, at the end of the conflict and an intense restoration work.

In 1978 the Prelature of Opus Dei bought and restored the Villa to be used for educational and spiritual purposes and has since taken the name of Castelromano.

Map: Castel Romano