Local treats

Of the so many great things about living in Italy, one of the best is the opportunity to get to know a place in depth.  We are fortunate enough to be in the middle of some wonderful sites, all the more wonderful because they are not widely known.  No one would plan a trip specifically to visit our area, but those of us lucky enough to be here for the long term are able to see some interesting and picturesque spots, all within an easy drive from home.

First, the beautiful Sant'Agata dei Goti.  Settled in the early 300s, it used to be called just Sant'Agata.  Then it was conquered by the Goths and since then it has been called Saint Agatha of the Goths.  There haven't been any Goths around for quite some time, but the name has stuck.  This is not to be confused with the beautiful Sant'Agata di Puglia, which has welcomed us several times and which was the subject of one of our more harrowing driving experiences.  I'm not sure who Sant'Agata was, but she has certainly inspired some beautiful towns!

Located about a half hour from Cervinara, the road to Sant'Agata dei Goti takes us through some lovely farmland and up and down beautiful hills.  Driving into town requires crossing over a deep ravine on which the historic center is built.  Amazing views!  One of the best things about Sant'Agata is that it has parking.  Lots of parking, within a few steps of the pedestrian city center!  That's a much appreciated rarity here.  Once inside the old walls, we can stroll through cobble stone streets, make leisurely visits through the many churches and the Duomo, and finally wend our way up to the walls that look out onto that ravine.  We came here with our grandsons, two year old Daniel and five year old James.  Walking along the ramparts, Daniel kept looking over the wall and yelling, "What a view! What a view!" It's embarrassing when your grandchildren pick up and expand upon your linguistic tics, but I guess he's heard me exclaim that same sentiment more than once!

There's a pretty little park at the top of the town, with a fountain/fish pond that fascinated the boys more than any of the old buildings.  And there's a pretty café in a most  pleasant spot with "what a view!"  This little town deserves a visit and the best part is, it's easily accomplished in a couple of hours, just in time to enjoy an excellent lunch.

We needed something easy, kid friendly, and not too pricey, and our stop at the Antico Borgo filled the bill well.  While not haute cuisine, the waitstaff was wonderful and included our hostess who immediately seated us in a quiet corner and brought the boys pages of cartoon characters and markers to color them in.  When I asked that the boys be served ASAP, within five minutes their gnocchi and ravioli were on the table and they happily dug into their lunches.  This is what I like so much about small restaurants in Italy....they really will try to accommodate you and the needs of their younger clients.

So, when in Cervinara, take advantage of what the Valley has to offer and make a visit to Sant'Agata dei Goti.  You won't regret it!