Rome and its Castles Trophy

A historic rally that tells the story of Lazio from behind the wheel

The Rome and its Castles Trophy is one of the longest-running events in Roman historic motoring. Born as a social outing for the Scuderia Campidoglio — an ASI-federated club based on Via Prati Fiscali in Rome, active since 1954 and considered the oldest Roman association dedicated to vintage cars — it has evolved over the years into a full-fledged cultural itinerary, bringing cars out of garages that are rarely seen on the road.

The formula has remained the same for over twenty editions: starting from Rome early in the morning, participants drive along provincial roads chosen for their scenery rather than speed, reaching a village in the Province of Rome or Lazio where a castle, fortress, or noble palace awaits, opened specifically for the occasion. This is not a speed race: the focus is on regularity, punctuality, and the pleasure of slow driving.

Castles, the true stars

Each edition features a new destination, which is why the Trophy has built such a loyal following. In recent years, the caravan has visited Caprarola, Torre Alfina, Orte Sotterranea, and Sambuci, alternating between the Tuscia region of Viterbo and the Tiburtine hinterland. The tours are always guided and reserved for participants, allowing access to places often not open to the general public.

• Astalli-Theodoli Castle in Sambuci — the 2026 destination, one of the most evocative fortified complexes in the Aniene Valley
• Torre Alfina Castle — visited in 2025, a neo-medieval manor on the border with Umbria
• Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola — the highlight of the 2024 edition

Eligible cars

The rally is open to Scuderia Campidoglio members and guest crews with cars of historical interest, generally at least thirty years old and holding ASI certification or membership. There is no rigid selection by brand or category: alongside classic Italian models — Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Fiat, Autobianchi — you will usually see British and German cars, and the occasional rare specimen. Modern cars belonging to accompanying members are generally tolerated, but the spotlight remains on the vintage vehicles.

More than a rally: a relationship with local municipalities

A recognizable feature of the Trophy is the institutional welcome: in the destination villages, crews are received by mayors and local administrations, with greetings in the town square and often a small exhibition of the cars in the historic center. For small towns like Sambuci or Cerreto Laziale, the arrival of twenty or thirty vintage cars is an event that brings visitors and attention, and the Scuderia has built a lasting relationship with the territories it traverses.

Dining as part of the journey

Lunch is not just a logistical detail but a key part of the program. The chosen destinations are local trattorias and restaurants offering seasonal Lazio cuisine: handmade pasta, grilled meats, local cheeses, and regional wines. It is the moment when the day concludes with symbolic awards and farewells, usually in the early afternoon, in time to return to Rome by daylight.

When and how to participate

The Trophy traditionally takes place between late March and early April, either on a single Sunday or over a weekend with an overnight stay when the destination is further away. Registration opens a few weeks in advance and must be formalized directly with the club's secretariat, which provides the entry fee, meeting point, and roadbook. Places are limited by the capacity of the venues and dining halls, so early registration is recommended.