Torvaianica

Torvaianica is a mostly-modern city south of Rome, best known for its beaches. While the new construction is nothing notable, the wide sandy stretches of beach and a long seafront make it a popular place, especially with sun-seeking Romans. Aside from the sea, the main attraction in Torvaianica is the Zoo Marine park, a combination marine animal showcase and amusement.

The town's origins date to the Middle Ages when a Saracen tower was built as a protective look-out, called Torre Vajanico. The tower itself was damaged in WW II, as this area was a main landing front for the Allies. The tower was later torn down. The area has legendary beginnings, having been cited by Virgil as the site for Aeneus' landing in his mythical epic, Aeneid. In recent history, this stretch of coastline was the landing spot for the Allies, the "Normandy of Italy". A museum dedicated to WWII history is found in Anzio; the American Cemetery in Nettuno is the final resting place of many soldiers who died in the famous saga.

In 2006, the remains of an ancient Roman villa were uncovered in Torvaianica and can be seen in Via Siviglia. The lungomare (seafront) has lots of restaurants and cafes to enjoy the bounty of the Mediterranean.