Make a short trip north from Rome’s ancient ruins to a quiet city filled with medieval architecture and papal history.
Viterbo is a province in the Lazio region where ancient stone structures speckle the hilly landscape. The province’s deep medieval heritage is embedded in the foothills of Monte Fogliano and the surrounding countryside. Visit the province’s capital, the town of Viterbo, and admire a streetscape that has remained unchanged for centuries. Learn about the times of antiquity when you check out ancient relics and ruins. Experience the opulence of a town that became the seat of the popes in the 13th century and explore the beautiful Tyrrhenian coastline.
The province’s capital is a magnificent introduction to the old-world charm of the region. Stroll around the town’s historic core to see the solemn structure of the Palazzo dei Papi (Papal Palace) and the Cathedral of Saint Lorenzo. The City Museum houses a good collection of archaeological displays from prehistoric times to the days of the Ancient Romans.
The valley of the Arcione River lies to the west of the town and shelters the region’s famed thermal springs, known as the Baths of Viterbo. Treat yourself to a luxury spa treatment or explore the ruins of an Ancient Roman bath and the Renaissance-era Terme dei Papi.
Visit the town of TarquiniaOpens in a new window to see the beautiful painted tombs of the World Heritage-Listed Etruscan Necropolis, which dates back to approximately the 7th century B.C. The nearby town of Civita Castellana has a notable collection of medieval churches, including the Santa Maria di Pozzano cathedral and the Renaissance Santa Chiara Church. Explore the hillside township of Vetralla. The fortified commune contains some beautiful churches and the Necropolis of Norchia, which is carved into the rugged gorge.
Viterbo’s Tyrrhenian seaboard is dotted with seaside villages, luxury resorts and laid-back campgrounds. Stretch out on a sun lounge or go on a boat tour from one of the coastline’s marinas.
Reach Viterbo by flying into the Rome Fiumicino airport and taking a 2-hour bus or train ride to the province’s capital city. If you have a rental car, you can experience Viterbo’s delightful rural region and farmsteads. Enjoy the mild climate, year-round thermal springs and archaeological treasures of the province of Viterbo.
