Wanderlust World Wanderlust World It is virtually impossible to visit Gaeta and not see the stunning historic architecture that pervades the city. The old city of Gaeta has the highest concentration of historic sites, including the imposing Aragonese-Angevine castle, the Capella d'Oro and the Romanesque bell tower, which was built in the year 915. The Aragonese-Angevine castle is not visitable since it is used by the Italian military, but its most impressive feature is its large outer wall, which is viewable from many points in the city. Although the old city of Gaeta is small in relation to other towns in Italy, most buildings date back to before the 18th century and some even date back to the Roman era.
The popularity of Gaeta with vacationers is due almost entirely to its wonderful beaches. Although most visitors to Gaeta head to Serapo beach, which is the closest to the town, there are six other nearby beaches. Most beaches offer free access, although there are several lidos, or pay-to-use beaches, in the area. For surfers, Sant'Agostino beach is the most popular for its waves. Rising above the beaches is Monte Orlando, which is a large hill between the new and old portions of Gaeta. The mountain is best known for the Sanctuary of the Holy Trinity, but the entire area is a nature park with hiking trails, Roman ruins and a spectacular view of the sea. While on Monte Orlando, visit Montagna Spaccata, or Split Mountain, which is a natural, sea-carved grotto.
There are numerous religious and secular festivals in Gaeta throughout the year. Most famously, the city starts its festival season with Pasquetta, which is Easter Monday. Although this is a solemn religious pilgrimage, activity envelopes the city as thousands of pilgrims make their way to the Holy Trinity Sanctuary on Mount Orlando. Pasquetta is a very popular festival for many people in the surrounding area and for pilgrims from all over the world, which makes it an interesting sight. Also celebrated in Gaeta is the feast day of Sant'Erasmo, which is the patron saint of the town. Fireworks, processions and musicians come together to mark the occasion on June 2. During the summer, a Gaeta features several non-religious festivals, including surfing competitions and gastronomic events.