8 secret locations to fall in love with Italy

Some people walk the beaten path, while other need challenges.

If Italy is your passion, you are about to discover a few incredible, but not overly popular locations.

Follow us along these destinations, recommended by the Italians themselves, to uncover a secret – even the hearts of the largest and most popular cities can hold hidden gems!

The Aventine Keyhole in Rome, Italy

Atop of the Aventine Hill in Rome, you will discover an unexpectedly beautiful view. Approach the locked, covered in greenery doors of the Priory of the Knights of Malta, to find a decorated keyhole. Looking through the keyhole will reward you with a remarkable view of St. Peter's dome in the Vatican. You will see it framed by a tunnel of trees.

Temple of Valadier, Italy

This octagonal temple, inside a mountain cave, is located in the city of Genga (the region of Marche, about 65 km away from Ancona). It was commissioned by Pope Leone XII and named after its architect.

Vicolo dei Lavandai, Milan | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

At the heart of this charming town, by the shores of the Naniglio Grande Canal, you ll find a corner, where time has stopped its course long ago. This is Vicolo dei Lavandai, meaning “The Alley of Washers” – even today you can find an archaic washing machine here.

Discover more unusual things to do in Milan.

The bell tower in Curon Venosta, Italy

This odd bell tower rises above the water… with no church attached to it. The reason is that in 1950 the city of Curon Venosta was submerged in a man-made lake, called Lago di Resia (Reschensee in German). During the winter, the lake freezes over and you can walk to the bell tower. Curon Venosta is located in the North of Italy, near the borders with Switzerland and Austria.

Discover more stories about submerged churches.