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You won’t find it in glossy travel guides. But if you’re seeking the breath of the earth, history carved in tuff stone, and the scent of homemade bread... then Blera  awaits you—silent and genuine—in the wild heart of Tuscia. 🏛️ A Journey Through Time: From Etruscan Origins to the Middle Ages Blera is as ancient as the rock it rests upon.  Its origins date back to the 8th century BC, with a powerful Etruscan presence still visible through: Rock-cut necropolises Mysterious Vie Cave Dice-shaped tombs hidden in the woods The evocative Devil’s Bridge  and Bridge of the Fortress , relics of the ancient Via Clodia In the Middle Ages, the village became a stronghold. Today, you can still admire Porta Marina , the ancient walls, and historic buildings such as Palazzo Colonna , Palazzo Lattanzi , and the Governor’s House . The center unfolds along Via Roma  and Via Claudia , between external staircases, tuff alleys, and silences full of stories. ⛏️ Underground Blera: Caves, Tunnels, and Cellars Beneath the homes lies a hidden world: Blera is a beehive of caves , once Etruscan tombs, later repurposed as wine cellars, stables, storage rooms... and now transformed into convivial and cultural spaces. Descending into these tunnels is like entering the belly of history, where the walls exude centuries and the barrels breathe the scent of must. 🌳 Nature and Trekking in the Biedano Valley For those who love to walk in silence, this is a paradise of slow trekking . The trails through the Biedano Valley  and along the ancient Via Clodia  wind through: Forests of ferns and oaks Waterfalls and natural springs Etruscan tombs, cave chapels, columbaria, and ancient river crossings Ideal places for hikes, birdwatching, and nature photography. Not just a walk— an immersion into the purest, most hidden Tuscia . ⛪ Art, Faith, and Tradition Blera honors Saint Vivenzio , its patron saint, whose tomb lies in the Church of Santa Maria Assunta , next to a picturesque 16th-century well. Other churches—like Madonna del Suffragio , Madonna delle Lacrime , and Madonna della Selva —bear witness to a deep-rooted popular faith. 📅 Don’t miss the September procession to the Selva , and the local festivals that bring the village to life with music, tradition, and real food. 🍽️ Gastronomy and Local Products Blera means rustic, sustainable cuisine.  The star of the table is the “leprino” rabbit of Viterbo , a Slow Food presidium and symbol of local biodiversity. During events like “Blera in Tavola” , you can taste: Pappardelle with wild rabbit ragù Peasant soups made with legumes and seasonal vegetables Local wines and homemade desserts Show cooking and workshops on Tuscia’s culinary heritage All served with hospitality that is simple, genuine, and real. ✨ In Conclusion: Blera, the Beauty That Doesn’t Make Noise Blera doesn’t show off—it reveals itself.  It’s a place for those seeking slow time, deep roots, the sounds of nature, and a story that needs no special effects. 👉 Come lose yourself on its trails, and find yourself in its caves.You ’ll discover that the most precious treasures are not found where everyone looks, but where only a few truly listen.

In Blera, you eat the way you live: slowly, with hands dirty from the soil and a heart full of memories. Every dish carries a piece of Tuscia, and every trattoria whispers a story between its ancient stones. 🍽️ La TorrettaAverage rating: 4.5 ⭐ – Warm atmosphere and traditional cuisine Located in the historic center, La Torretta  is a cozy osteria that blends warm hospitality with traditional Viterbo cuisine. Wood-fired pizzas, gluten-free options, hearty pasta dishes, and handmade desserts, all served in a rustic yet well-kept setting. Perfect for dinner with friends or a break after strolling through the tuff-stone alleys. 🧡 Recommended:  Roman-style artichokes, white ragù fettuccine, homemade tiramisù. 🏨 Da Beccone – Hotel, Restaurant & PizzeriaAverage rating: 4.5 ⭐ – Tradition and hospitality, pool included Da Beccone  is more than a restaurant: it’s a slice of Blera’s history. Land and sea dishes, local ingredients, spacious indoor areas, and the bonus of an outdoor swimming pool. Ideal for those who wish to stay overnight after a long and indulgent dinner. 🥩 Recommended:  Sliced beef with arugula and parmesan, seafood spaghetti, homemade desserts. 🍷 Cantina Da Pappetta Se PappaNo rating available – Homemade cooking in tuff caves A true gem for those who love authenticity: a cellar-osteria carved into the tuff rock, timeless ambiance, and generous, rustic portions. The cuisine is honest and earthy: coratella  (offal stew), oxtail stew , hunter-style lamb, and porcini mushroom fettuccine. Warm, familial service and very honest prices. 🫶 Recommended:  Everything. Literally. 🌿 Agriturismo Poggio al SassoAverage rating: 4.5 ⭐ – Nature, homegrown products, total peace Just minutes from the center, this farmhouse offers seasonal cuisine with ingredients from its own farm: meats, vegetables, extra virgin olive oil, and local wine. The setting is rustic, genuine, and surrounded by nature. Great for Sunday lunches or countryside events. 🍅 Recommended:  House antipasto, pici  with wild hare sauce, mixed grill. 🍽️ Agriturismo L'IntrovabileAverage rating: 4.2 ⭐ – Authentic rural experience L'Introvabile  lives up to its name—perfect for those who love finding hidden gems. Simple cooking, zero-kilometer ingredients, and an unfiltered, honest atmosphere. Ideal for those seeking the true Tuscia, far from the tourist trail. 🍲 Recommended:  Chickpea and chestnut soup, hunter-style rabbit, homemade jam tart. ☕ Caffè EtruriaAverage rating: 4.6 ⭐ – Modern spirit in the ancient village A trendy corner in the heart of the village, perfect for breakfast and aperitifs. Light meals, well-made cocktails, and a good selection of wines and beers. Ideal for a relaxing pause, with a view of the piazza and people passing by. 🍹 Recommended:  Artisan croissant, Etruscan spritz, mixed platter for two. ✨ In Summary: In Blera, You Eat with the Soul Blera doesn’t just serve food: it offers memory, hospitality, and truth. From cellars carved into the rock to farmhouses deep in the green, everything here speaks the language of the land and the slow rhythm of time. 👉 Stop, sit down, and listen to the voice of traditional cooking. And take home the taste of the most authentic Tuscia.

🌅 Anguillara Sabazia: A Medieval Gem on Lake Bracciano Nestled like an ancient siren on the shores of Lake Bracciano, Anguillara Sabazia  is a village where time stretches like a shadow across the water. Here, history and nature walk hand in hand, in a landscape that enchants even those who believe they’ve seen it all. 🏺 Ancient Origins and History Anguillara is not just medieval — it’s prehistoric. In the area of La Marmotta , beneath the calm waters of the lake, archaeologists uncovered the oldest Neolithic village in Western Europe , a submerged treasure dating back 8,000 years. The name of the village itself comes from “Angularia,”  an ancient Roman villa built where the coast forms a sharp angle. The town passed from the noble Anguillara family  to the Orsini , then to the Grillo , and still preserves traces from every era: Roman, medieval, and Renaissance. 🏰 A Historic Center of Untouched Charm You enter through a 16th-century gate with a clock, and find yourself in a maze of cobbled alleys, stone stairways, flowering balconies, and postcard-worthy views. The historic center is a walk through time, where artisan shops coexist with the fisherman’s chatter and the aroma of fresh coffee. 📸 What to See in Anguillara 📍 Site ✨ What It Offers Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta Located on the highest point, stunning views and a 1592 painting of the Assumption Fontana delle Anguille Emblem of the town, overlooking one of the most scenic viewpoints Palazzo Baronale Orsini Now the Town Hall, boasts frescoes and historic gardens Church of San Biagio Intimate and delicate, dedicated to the patron saint Church of San Francesco 15th-century frescoes and a mystical atmosphere Piazza Magnante Home to 33 medieval silos carved into the rock Museum of Rural Life Located in the old tower, tells the story of Lazio’s 20th-century farming culture Acqua Claudia Archaeological Complex Remains of a Roman villa overlooking the lake 🚣 Lake Bracciano and the Lakeside Promenade Lake Bracciano  is the liquid soul of Anguillara. Its clear, swimmable waters are perfect for: swimming kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding relaxing on quiet little beaches admiring sunsets that look like paintings The lakeside promenade — lined with bars, docks, flowering trees, and poetic benches — is one of the most beautiful experiences in Lazio. And when the sun dips behind the hills… everything turns to gold. 🎬 Atmosphere and Local Experiences Anguillara Sabazia  has often been chosen as a set for films and TV series thanks to its naturally picturesque, authentic, and intimate charm. Yet, despite being close to Rome, the chaos never reaches here. Only seagulls, bicycles, strolling families, and the scent of freshly baked bread. ✨ In Summary: A Lakeside Fairy Tale Just Outside Rome Anguillara Sabazia is a gentle escape — through alleys and sailboats, churches and medieval silos, frescoes and lakeside aperitifs. It’s the perfect place for those seeking a day of beauty, history, and tranquility, far from the noise and close to the heart. 👉 Bring your camera, but most of all, bring time. Anguillara is not to be rushed. It is to be savored.

When hunger strikes and the calm blue of Lake Bracciano opens before you, Anguillara Sabazia  responds with a cuisine that feels like home — filled with freshwater flavors, genuine trattorias, and elegant restaurants nestled between history and breathtaking views. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening, a cheerful lunch, or a surprising gastronomic discovery, this village has something to say... with fork and knife. Here are the best restaurants in Anguillara , carefully selected to let you experience both lake and flavor with the same sense of wonder. 🌅 La Terrazza sul Lago – Elegance Gazing at Infinity 📍 €€€ | Lake view | Fresh fish | Romantic atmosphere This is more than just a restaurant—it’s a postcard. Large windows and a terrace overlooking the lake, refined seafood dishes, seasonal ingredients, and attentive yet discreet service. Perfect for a memorable dinner with a breathtaking view. Ideal for anniversaries, love declarations, or simply to tell yourself: you deserve this. 🐟 Ristorante Zaira – Tradition Served with Style 📍 €€€ | Seafood cuisine | Excellent wines | Romantic and refined A true institution in Anguillara. The spotlight is on fish, but also classic Italian dishes reinterpreted with finesse. Elegant interiors, professional service, homemade desserts, and an atmosphere made for special evenings. Recommended for those who love tradition with a touch of flair. 🥂 Ciccio e La Ristogatta – The Taste of Tuscia with a View 📍 €€ | Seasonal cuisine | Local wines | Panoramic terrace In the heart of the historic village, this restaurant changes with the seasons but never with its passion. Local ingredients, traditional dishes, vegetarian options, and a panoramic terrace that takes your breath away. Ciccio and his “cat” have even conquered TripAdvisor... but the real judgment is in your first bite. 🍽️ Ristorante Boricella – Something for Everyone, Always 📍 €€ | Traditional | Wide menu | Family-friendly A relaxed, informal setting with a lake view—this time with a more easygoing vibe. From lake fish to meats, hearty salads to vegetarian options, Boricella is the go-to for family lunches, friend gatherings, and children in tow. No frills, just warm hospitality and dishes that get the job done. 👨‍🍳 Ristorante Massimino – Simplicity That Wins You Over 📍 € | Roman cuisine | Homemade pasta | Honest prices A place with a family soul, perfect for travelers who want to feel at home. Fresh pasta, well-prepared mains, traditional desserts, and a laid-back environment. Service may vary, but the quality of the food stays solid. Massimino is an honest restaurant, like someone who cooks with love. 🐾 La Caletta – Lakeside Restaurant – Feet in the Sand, Fork in the Fish 📍 €€ | Lakeside location | Trendy & relaxed | Dog-friendly One of the most popular spots—literally on the lake. Tables just steps from the water, dishes featuring lake and sea fish, delicious desserts, and a carefully curated wine selection. The vibe is young, cheerful, and relaxed. Your four-legged friends are welcome too. Perfect for a long aperitivo or a slow dinner. 🍷 Trattoria da Lalla – Rome with a Taste of Sauce and Passion 📍 € | Authentic Roman cuisine | Generous portions | Homely atmosphere Oxtail stew , wild boar pappardelle , homemade desserts. The aroma alone tells the story of this trattoria just a stone’s throw from the lake. You don’t go to Lalla’s to be amazed—you go to rediscover those flavors that warm the stomach and the soul. Authentic, convivial, and honest: a trattoria like they used to be. 🧭 In Summary:Anguillara Sabazia  is an invitation to slow down, sit at the table, and let the lake speak through those who cook it every day. Here, every restaurant offers a different perspective; every dish is a small tale of Tuscia and its love for simplicity, for fresh water, and for the land that feeds it.

There is a village that seems made of air and stone, where every glance gets lost in the Tiber Valley and every step is a return to simplicity. This place is called Bassano in Teverina , and it holds the beauty of those who don’t need to shout to be noticed. 📍 Where It Is Located Bassano in Teverina lies in the province of Viterbo, nestled between Orte and Viterbo, about 300 meters above sea level. It’s a small village with just around 1,100 inhabitants, but it boasts a breathtaking view over the Tiber Valley, making it a natural balcony over the most authentic Lazio. 🏰 A Village to Discover Walking through its cobblestone alleys, you'll find postcard-perfect views, stone houses, Romanesque churches, medieval ruins, and the calm of villages that have learned how to preserve time. Must-see highlights include: The Clock Tower , overlooking the valley The Church of Santa Maria dei Lumi , guardian of ancient frescoes The old town , partially restored, with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside 🍃 What to Do in Bassano in Teverina This is the perfect spot for: a slow-paced getaway, far from mass tourism scenic walks picnics in the hills landscape photography woodland and riverside explorations along the Tiber In summer, the village comes to life with festivals, concerts, and cultural events that celebrate its rural roots and strong sense of community. 🍷 Local Flavors and Traditions Bassano is also synonymous with genuine flavors. Be sure to try: Porchetta from Viterbo Wood-fired bread Handmade sweets  like tozzetti  and wine cookies Local wines , perfect for pairing with a day of discovery ✨ In Short: A Small Gem in High Altitude Bassano in Teverina is perfect for those who love silence, stone, views, and the truth of small villages. A hidden gem between woods and the Tiber, where the most authentic Lazio reveals itself without filters. 👉 Visit with curious eyes and time in your heart—you’ll find more than you were looking for.

If, while strolling through Bassano in Teverina, you find yourself enchanted by the stone alleys, blooming loggias, and silences filled with stories, get ready: the enchantment continues at the table. In this village that seems suspended between the Middle Ages and a dream, cuisine is an intimate art—rooted in the land, yet capable of surprising with creativity and warmth. From traditional peasant dishes to gourmet offerings, dining in Bassano is an experience steeped in authenticity. Here are the best restaurants to stop by, savor, and let yourself be pampered. 🍷 Osteria Belvedere – When Tuff Stone Meets Elegance 📍 Housed in a historic building | Creative cuisine | Extensive wine list This is not just a restaurant—it's a caress made of stone, soft light, and dishes that tell stories. Set inside spaces carved from tuff rock, the menu embraces tradition while reinterpreting it with flair. Generous portions and a wine cellar for true connoisseurs. Perfect for a romantic dinner or for anyone seeking a full sensory experience made of flavor, hospitality, and poetry. 🍝 Ristorante Borgo Antico – Tradition That Feels Like Home 📍 Mediterranean cuisine | Intimate atmosphere | Vegan options available A place that welcomes you with warmth and simplicity, where Italian tradition is present in every dish. Handmade pasta, succulent meats, seasonal vegetables, and a menu that gazes at Tuscia with loving eyes. The atmosphere is relaxed, the hospitality sincere. Ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for genuine flavor without the frills.

Nestled on the border between Lazio, Tuscany, and Umbria, Acquapendente  is more than just a geographical threshold — it’s a soulful passage  between regions, cultures, and centuries. Known as the “Jerusalem of Tuscia” , this charming town is a hidden gem where medieval faith, Etruscan roots, and wild landscapes  converge. 🕍 1. A Town Built on Faith: The Holy Sepulchre Crypt At the heart of Acquapendente lies the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre , one of the most spiritually significant sites along the Via Francigena . Its Romanesque crypt  houses one of the earliest known replicas of Christ’s tomb in Jerusalem , making it a centuries-old destination for pilgrims heading to Rome. 📍 Don’t miss : The 13th-century bell tower , a symbol of the town The crypt's columns  with unique carved capitals The annual Festival of the Pugnaloni , where floral mosaics retell the story of freedom and miracles 🌳 2. Nature That Heals: From Acquapendente to Monte Rufeno Surrounded by forests, hills, and volcanic plains, Acquapendente is the ideal base for hikers, naturalists, and slow travelers . 🌿 Monte Rufeno Nature Reserve :A vast protected area where you’ll find: Over 1,000 plant species  and rare wildlife Panoramic trails  suitable for all levels Historical farmhouses  turned eco-museums and nature lodges 🧭 Suggested walk: From Acquapendente to Torre Alfina  through beech woods and lavender fields 🏛️ 3. A Crossroads of Cultures and Stones Historically, Acquapendente was a strategic point  between the Papal States and the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. This legacy lives on in its: Medieval walls and gates Renaissance buildings  like Palazzo Viscontini Museo della Città , where Etruscan artifacts meet local folklore 🍷 4. Local Taste, Slow Rhythms Here, everything is a passo lento . Traditional cuisine is based on zero-kilometer ingredients , and you’ll often find: Chestnut flour polenta Pici with boar sauce Acquacotta soup Hazelnut-based sweets and local Grechetto wine Pair your visit with a meal in a family-run trattoria , and you’ll understand why flavor here is rooted in time . ✨ Why Visit Acquapendente? To follow the footsteps of pilgrims  without the crowds To breathe in Etruscan silence and medieval echoes To rediscover the joy of walking, seeing, and feeling  — slowly

Authentic dishes, local ingredients, and warm hospitality at the gateway to the north of Lazio. Acquapendente — perched on the northern edge of Tuscia and crossed by the ancient Via Francigena  — is not only a place of history, art, and spirituality. It’s also a small capital of genuine, rooted cuisine , where tradition meets simplicity , and every meal feels like a homecoming. 🥘 What You’ll Taste in Acquapendente Acquacotta : a humble yet flavorful soup made with stale bread, wild herbs, onions, and sometimes a poached egg. Pici : hand-rolled thick pasta, often served with local game sauces or simple garlic and tomato. Cinghiale in umido : wild boar stew, marinated in red wine and herbs, slow-cooked to perfection. Formaggi e salumi locali : goat and sheep cheeses, air-dried sausages, and lardo aromatizzato alle erbe. Dolci della tradizione : ricotta and sour cherry tarts, chestnut flour treats, and nocciolini. All paired with wines from the nearby Alta Tuscia and Orvieto hills , and extra virgin olive oil  from centuries-old groves. 🍷 Where to Eat – Viterbolandia’s Select Picks 🏡 Trattoria Il Borgo Rustic, welcoming, and proudly local A stone’s throw from the central piazza, this trattoria serves traditional dishes prepared as they were a century ago , using fresh ingredients from neighboring farms. The tagliatelle with porcini  in autumn are legendary. 📍 Via del Rivo, 12 💰 Mid-range🌟 Don’t miss : house-made pici with duck ragù 🌾 Osteria del Pellegrino A warm stop for Via Francigena walkers — and lovers of honest food Popular with pilgrims and locals alike, this osteria offers daily-changing menus  based on what’s in season. The zuppa del giorno  (soup of the day) is always a safe and comforting choice. 📍 Via Cassia Nord, 88 💰 Budget-friendly🌟 Don’t miss : acquacotta and grilled pecorino 🍷 La Cantina dei Sapori Tuscia elegance with a contemporary twist An intimate place where traditional Tuscia recipes meet refined presentation . Perfect for a romantic dinner or special evening. 📍 Piazza Girolamo Fabrizio 💰 Mid-high range🌟 Don’t miss : wild boar with plum sauce and a glass of Grechetto 🥖 Farm-to-Table & Street Snacks Panificio Forno Antico  (Via Roma): try their tozzetti  or fresh focaccia with local EVO oil Mercato Contadino  (held weekly in the main piazza): seasonal fruits, cured meats, cheeses, and hazelnut products to take home or enjoy during a walk 🌟 Why Eat in Acquapendente? Because here, food isn’t a trend — it’s continuity Because every dish tells a story of seasonality, soil, and simplicity Because you'll be welcomed not like a tourist, but like a guest

Far from the crowds of Florence, beyond the glitter of Venice, and untouched by the tourism machines of Rome, Tuscia  lies hidden like a gem wrapped in moss and mystery. It doesn’t beg to be discovered. It lets itself be found — only by those who truly look. 🗝️ A Region of Timeless Rarity Once the core of the ancient Etruscan civilization , Tuscia stretches across northern Lazio , with veins touching Umbria and southern Tuscany. It’s a landscape of volcanic lakes, medieval towns, secret necropolises, and forest sanctuaries  — where every stone hums with meaning and every silence invites contemplation. This isn’t a destination for everyone. It’s for those who prefer truth over trend , depth over spectacle , and the art of wonder over the artifice of show . 🎩 Why Tuscia Appeals to the Discerning Traveler 🌿 Raw authenticity : Here, olive groves whisper stories older than Rome, and locals still greet you as if you’ve returned home. 🏛️ Untamed heritage : From Villa Lante  to Palazzo Farnese , from Bomarzo’s Monster Park  to the viae cave  of the Etruscans, the grandeur is discreet but profound. 🍷 Culinary elegance : Chestnut flour gnocchi, Viterbese truffles, hazelnut desserts, and wines like Est! Est!! Est!!!  — served not for show, but for joy. 🛏️ Exclusive stillness : Think boutique hotels in ancient convents, private Etruscan tours, and dinners under pergolas where time doesn’t matter. 🗺️ Where Time Slows Down 🏰 Civita di Bagnoregio : The “Dying City” that refuses to vanish — accessible only on foot, suspended above the void 🪨 Sovana, Norchia, Vulci : Etruscan cities of the dead, more alive than any museum 🧭 Vitorchiano and the Moai : A Polynesian sculpture in a medieval village. No explanation needed — just wonder. ✨ Tuscia Is Not for Tourists. It’s for Travelers. The kind who get lost on purpose.Who eat slowly.Who listen to ruins.Who know that the soul of a country isn’t found in crowds, but in corners — forgotten by most, unforgettable for the few. 💼 Viterbolandia Tip for Elite Explorers Contact us to create your bespoke journey: private guides, access to hidden gardens, wine tastings in family-run estates, and spiritual walks through forests and ruins.Tuscia doesn’t advertise. It whispers . And you’re exactly the kind of person who knows how to listen.

A walk through the soul of Viterbo, where stone tells stories and silence speaks history In Viterbo, the Middle Ages aren’t a distant echo — they breathe in the arches, the fountains, the alleyways .One of the most evocative routes in the city leads from the Quartiere San Pellegrino  to Piazza del Gesù : a short but powerful stroll through the best-preserved medieval heart  of Tuscia. 🏰 1. Quartiere San Pellegrino: Time Worn, Time Alive This is not a museum. It’s a living district  where medieval houses are still inhabited, workshops open their doors, and every stone has a name.Characterized by peperino arches, external staircases, hanging balconies, and noble coats of arms , the quarter is a visual poem of 13th-century urban life. 📸 Don’t miss: Palazzo degli Alessandri , the district's crown jewel Stone bridges  between buildings — Viterbo’s unique architecture Secret gardens and courtyards  glimpsed through wrought iron gates ⛲ 2. Via San Pellegrino: A Corridor of Silence As you walk down this cobbled lane, let yourself slow your step . Here, the past doesn’t shout — it whispers .Niches with sacred images, medieval lanterns, and worn thresholds remind us of daily life centuries ago , not in grand events, but in small rituals. 🕍 3. Piazza del Gesù: Where Stone and Power Met The walk opens into Piazza del Gesù , one of the most atmospheric squares in Viterbo.Here you’ll find the Chiesa del Gesù , one of the oldest Romanesque churches in the city, dating to the 11th century.The square also hosted political meetings, executions, and popular assemblies  — it was once the heart of civic tension and spiritual faith . 📖 A dark curiosity: In 1271, Henry of Cornwall , nephew of King Henry III of England, was assassinated in this very square  during a diplomatic mission to the papal court. ✨ Why Take This Medieval Walk? To touch 800 years of continuity  with your fingertips To feel the quiet dignity of stone worn by time and devotion To discover that history is not just in books — it’s under your feet 🗺️ Viterbolandia Tip :Make the walk at sunset, when golden light brushes the stone  and the piazzas begin to empty.Pair it with a visit to a small wine bar or trattoria nearby — there’s no better place to reflect on time than with a glass in hand and centuries around you.

Step by step, across landscapes shaped by faith, stone, and silence The Via Francigena , the ancient pilgrimage route that connected Canterbury to Rome, passes through some of the most beautiful and untouched stretches of Tuscia.One of the most evocative segments is the path from Vetralla to Viterbo : a 15-km walk  through woods, basalt roads, Etruscan echoes, and medieval memories. 🗺️ Route Overview Distance : approx. 15 km Estimated time : 4–5 hours (leisurely pace) Difficulty : Easy to moderate Starting point : Vetralla – Piazza Umberto I Arrival : Viterbo – Porta San Pietro (historical pilgrim entrance) Marked : Yes (white and red VF markers + stylized pilgrim shell) 🌳 1. Leaving Vetralla: Olive Groves and Basalt Roads The route begins in Vetralla , a hilltop town with deep Etruscan roots and strong pilgrim traditions.You immediately descend into a landscape of olive trees, dry-stone walls, and ancient paving stones  — remnants of the original basolato romano . 📸 Don’t miss: The Church of San Francesco  (pilgrim blessing site) Views of Monte Fogliano Old shepherd huts and terraced vineyards 🌲 2. The Forest of Macchia di Piantata: Between Shadow and Silence Midway, the path enters a dense chestnut and oak forest , known as the Macchia di Piantata .Here , the silence deepens, broken only by birdsong and your footsteps — it’s one of the most meditative stretches of the entire Via Francigena. 🧘 Perfect for: Mindful walking Nature photography Reflective stops beneath the canopy 🏛️ 3. Arriving in Viterbo: The Pilgrim’s City After passing under Roman aqueducts and crossing quiet countryside, you arrive in Viterbo , once known as the City of the Popes .Pilgrims traditionally entered through Porta San Pietro , and many still do today. 📍 Must-sees for pilgrims: The Pilgrim’s Fountain The Quartiere San Pellegrino , with its medieval architecture The Cathedral of San Lorenzo , where spiritual and civic history meet 🥖 Pilgrim Tips (Viterbolandia Approved) Bring water and snacks: there are a few fountains, but services are sparse between the towns Wear sturdy shoes : some stretches are uneven with roots and stones Stop at a local bakery in Viterbo  for pizza bianca or tozzetti as a post-trek reward ✨ Why Walk the Francigena between Vetralla and Viterbo? Because it’s a walk through history , not just scenery Because it offers the perfect balance of nature, silence, and story Because it reminds you that every step can have meaning

Where Renaissance elegance meets medieval soul A stone’s throw from Viterbo, Bagnaia  is a small gem suspended in time — a perfect half-day escape  that blends history, art, and nature  in a single harmonious experience. From the medieval charm of the village to the Renaissance wonder of Villa Lante , every corner tells a story of beauty and balance. 🏘️ The Village of Bagnaia: Between Stone and Silence Bagnaia welcomes visitors with its narrow alleys , stone houses , and flowered balconies , framed by a backdrop of forested hills. Originally a Lombard settlement, it flourished under the papal state, becoming a favorite retreat of bishops and artists. 📸 Don’t miss : Piazza XX Settembre, with its central fountain and cafés The ancient gate and defensive walls Artisanal shops and local trattorias hidden in cobbled lanes 🏛️ Villa Lante: A Renaissance Masterpiece of Water and Geometry Commissioned in the 16th century by Cardinal Gambara and later completed by the Lante family, Villa Lante  is one of the most refined examples of Renaissance garden design in Italy .Unlike many grand villas, its main attraction is the garden , not the palace — a symbolic journey of man’s control over nature through symmetry, terraces, and flowing water . 🌊 Highlights : The Fontana dei Mori , with four black stone figures and the Lante family coat of arms The Axial Water Chain , descending from the woods to the villa in perfect geometry Frescoed loggias, fountains, grottos, and hidden sculptures 🕰️ Open most days, small entrance fee. Best visited in the morning or golden hour for light and peace. 🚶‍♀️ Walking the Gardens: From Forest to Fountain After visiting the formal garden, take the path leading up into the woods  behind the villa — originally part of the water system that fed the fountains.This short woodland walk  offers peace, dappled light, and views over Tuscia’s hills . It's perfect for those who love combining artistic heritage with natural immersion . 🍷 Viterbolandia Tip :After your walk, treat yourself to a meal or aperitivo in the main piazza. Try local dishes with porcini, truffle, or hazelnuts , paired with a glass of Est! Est!! Est!!!  or Grechetto . 🌟 Why Visit Bagnaia? It’s 10 minutes from Viterbo  and feels like stepping into another century It blends art, nature, and harmony  in one peaceful itinerary It’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking calm beauty and cultural depth