Tuscania

Tuscania is a lovely hill town at the edge of the Maremma Viterbese, close to the Lake Bolsena. It is near the sea, and close to Tarquinia in the Viterbo province. The symbol of the city is the hill called "Colle San Pietro", with its archeological history (inhabited from the the Iron Age), and its towers.

Tuscania was an ancient Etruscan settlement, which gives the name to the town as well as the region of Tuscany. There are numerous necropolis all around the city, like Madonna dell'Olivo (the most noted one). Tuscania is rich in surprises and interesting sights. You can visit churches, monuments and ancient buildings, and just bask in the ancient atmosphere.

According to the legend, the city of Tuscania was founded by Tusco, son of Hercules. The town sits above the two valleys of the rivers Marta and Capecchio, perched on top of a hill overlooking stunning panoramas. (It is Lazio but the landscape is really no different from neighboring Tuscany!)

The churches in Tuscania certainly are one of the most fascinating elements in town, and we strongly suggest a tour to discover the lovely religious monuments. Starting from the Church of St Marco, one of the oldest buildings; then have a look at the Church of Santa Croce, now unconsecrated and seat of the local Records Office; the Church of St Maria della Rosa, with splendid architectural construction; the Cathedral, dating back to 1500 and repository of a number of precious works of art. Also noteworthy is the Church of St Maria del Riposo that, as one of the most significant churches in Tuscania, preserves some lovely and noteworthy frescoes; the Church of St Maria Maggiore, built in the 8th century, displays a beautiful 14th-century fresco representing the "Last Judgement;" and the Basilica of St Pietro, in Lombard/Romanesque style.

Among the public secular must sees, you should take a look at the Fontana delle Sette Cannelle, built during the Etruscan-Roman Age; the Torre di Lavello, immersed into the Renaissance edifices in town; the Palazzo Fani Ciotti, dating to 1500; Porta del Popolo and Porta del Poggio, known as the two main entrances to the ancient fortified city; the Palazzo Comunale (1600), keeping some great Renaissance frescoes. And of course, do not miss the necropolis, just out of the city, Regina and Tomba are really popular.