Creating an architectural itinerary for the Latina area in Lazio unveils a unique blend of modernist planning, ancient ruins, and natural landscapes. Latina, founded in 1932 under the Fascist regime as Littoria, is a prime example of rationalist architecture and urban planning. The city and its surroundings offer a distinct journey through Italy's more recent history, contrasting sharply with the ancient and medieval sites typical of the broader Lazio region. Here’s a suggested itinerary that highlights some of the architectural and historical points of interest in the Latina area:

Latina Architectural Itinerary

Latina's City Center: Start your exploration in the heart of Latina, where the city's rationalist heritage is most evident. Piazza del Popolo, the main square, is surrounded by prime examples of Fascist-era architecture, including the Palazzo del Governo, the Post Office, and the Church of San Marco. These buildings showcase the geometric clarity and symmetry characteristic of rationalist design, intended to reflect the ideals of the Fascist government.

Mussolini's Head and the Mosaic of Piazza San Marco: Within the city center, pay special attention to the details like the relief of Mussolini's head on some buildings and the intricate mosaics in Piazza San Marco, which embody the regime's emphasis on Roman imagery and propaganda through architecture.

The Pontine Marshes Reclamation and the Museum of Land Reclamation (Museo della Bonifica): Understanding the transformation of the Pontine Marshes into arable land is essential to appreciating Latina's history. The Museum of Land Reclamation in Latina provides insights into the massive engineering project undertaken by the Fascist government, showcasing the area's transition from marshland to modern agriculture and settlement.

Garden City of Borgo Piave: Explore the garden city concept as applied in Borgo Piave, a suburb of Latina designed according to the principles of rationalist urban planning. This area highlights the integration of green spaces with residential and public buildings, reflecting the ideal of self-contained, harmonious community living.

Ancient Roman Sites and the Appian Way: Venture just outside Latina to explore ancient Roman sites along the Appian Way (Via Appia), one of Rome's oldest and most important roads. Notable sites include the Villa of Tiberius at Sperlonga and the Circeo National Park, where myth, history, and natural beauty converge. The park is not only a natural reserve but also home to significant archaeological sites, including the remains of Emperor Domitian's villa.

Sabaudia and its Rationalist Architecture: A short drive from Latina, the town of Sabaudia offers another excellent example of Fascist urban planning and rationalist architecture, set against the backdrop of the Circeo National Park and its lakes. Sabaudia was also founded in the 1930s and features a coherent urban layout, with the town square, government buildings, and church forming a harmonious ensemble that embodies the ideals of the Fascist regime.

This itinerary through Latina and its environs presents a fascinating glimpse into a period of Italian history where architecture and urban planning were directly influenced by political ideology and social engineering. It offers a unique perspective on how modernist and rationalist principles were applied to create new towns and landscapes, making it an intriguing journey for those interested in architecture, history, and the natural beauty of the Lazio region.