In the heart of Civita Castellana, in the Treja Valley, lies Residenza Antica Flaminia , a true historical gem awarded the Corona d’Oro by the Residenze d’Epoca. Here, where the stone tells centuries of stories and the silence carries the scent of Mediterranean gardens, time seems to slow down—offering an ideal retreat for those in search of elegance, privacy, and authenticity. 🏰 History & Origins This exclusive residence was born from the Castello di Gargarasi , a 16th-century fortress perched on a tuff cliff overlooking the valley along the ancient Via Flaminia . It was transformed by sculptor Guido Veroi , renowned for designing the Caravelle coins and the first Vatican lira: his artistic sensitivity gave each stone a refined, luminous soul, blending classical style with Mediterranean elegance. 🔶 Classification & Certifications Today, the residence is a certified Historic Residence , awarded the highest distinction: the Corona d’Oro , reserved for properties that combine historical-architectural value with outstanding hospitality. 🛌 The Three Residences Upon entering the estate, guests find themselves in an exclusive hamlet made up of three distinct souls: Villa Padronale , set within the medieval tower; Dimora del Giardiniere , adorned with authentic biforate windows; Casa del Guardiano , next to the ancient Roman entrance arch. The tastefully restored spaces can accommodate up to 15 guests , offering a discreet and charming atmosphere. 🌳 Outdoor Spaces & Amenities The estate’s park, spanning over 12,000 m² of history and nature , opens onto a panoramic pool with solarium and jacuzzi, overlooking ancient Roman tuff quarries . Additional features include: terraces and gardens for exclusive events; possibility of on-site civil ceremonies ; receptions allowed until 1:00 AM; capacity for up to 150 guests for private events; Wi‑Fi, air conditioning, barbecue, and private parking. 🔍 Unique Features This historic residence is not just a place to stay—it’s a living work of art . Its most fascinating features include: breathtaking views of the Treja Valley ; direct access to the Roman tuff quarry ; a private chapel perfect for intimate and symbolic ceremonies. 🥂 Events & Receptions Residenza Antica Flaminia is the perfect venue for all types of events: dream weddings in a historic atmosphere; corporate retreats and team-building with customizable settings; private parties, photo shoots, presentations, and conferences. The location can host up to 230 people , with flexible spaces and a highly professional staff. 📞 Contacts & Useful Info Address : Via Gargarasi 15, Civita Castellana (VT) Phone : +39 0761 1767550 Email : info@residenzaanticaflaminia.com Website : www.residenzaanticaflaminia.com 💬 Guest Reviews On Booking and other major platforms, Residenza Antica Flaminia boasts outstanding reviews (10/10) for hospitality, cleanliness, comfort, and the tranquil, green setting of a true oasis. ✅ In Summary Residenza Antica Flaminia is not simply a place to stay—it’s a journey through time , an immersive experience where nature, art, and high-end hospitality come together. Perfect for those who wish to discover the most authentic side of Tuscia , embraced by excellent services and breathtaking views. If you’re looking for a special place to say “I do” , or to spend a regal weekend, this corner of history and beauty is waiting for you. Welcome to your castle. 🏰

Experience the grandeur of the Italian Renaissance. Just steps from the Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Papi, this 16th-century residence—once home to Cardinal Raffaele Riario—now welcomes discerning travelers to a charming relais where art, history, and modern comfort converge. ⛪ A Palace of Art, Among Frescoes and Heraldic Symbols Built around 1500, the palace preserves its noble soul: coffered painted ceilings, crests with horse heads and crescent moons, and original Florentine frescoes nestled in the rooms. Every corner tells the story of an age where power and beauty were one, and hospitality was a privilege for the elite. 📍 In One of Viterbo’s Most Enchanting Alleys, on the Popes’ Path Via della Torre is one of the city’s most evocative historic routes, and Palazzo Riario occupies its most strategic corner—near the Old Clock Tower and Lavatoio Square. The perfect location for exploring on foot: San Pellegrino Quarter (400m) Palazzo dei Papi and the Cathedral (650m) Civic Museum and Fontana Grande (300m) Plus, a front-row view of the Macchina di Santa Rosa (September 3), a UNESCO Heritage celebration. 🛏️ Sleep in a 16th-Century Palace (Without Giving Up Wi-Fi) Each of the six air-conditioned rooms is unique, tastefully decorated in harmony with the building’s soul. Some feature canopy beds, peperino stone walls, and a “Romeo and Juliet” ambiance, yet all offer modern comforts: Private bathrooms Free Sky TV Top-rated Wi-Fi (9.8/10) 🍷 Hospitality Has a Name—And a Kitchen The residence is managed by Renato, a beloved host who also runs the nearby restaurant La Chimera (just 100 meters away). Guests can dine in the restaurant’s evocative cave or enjoy room service in true relais style. Bonus: a tiny private garage in the medieval center (fits five cars “like sardines”). ☕ Little Touches That Make a Big Difference Always-on hot drink station Complimentary sweets Italian breakfast with fresh pastries and local specialties, served in a charming underground hall Guestbook signed by travelers from around the world 🌍 An Ideal Base for Exploring Tuscia Easy day trips to: Civita di Bagnoregio, the “Dying Town” (45 min) Lake Bolsena (45 min) Monster Park in Bomarzo (45 min) Etruscan necropolis in Tarquinia (1 hour) Luxury spa Terme dei Papi (1.2 km) – special guest discount 🍽️ Nearby Culinary Delights Enoteca La Torre (1 Michelin star) Trattoria Porta Romana , Il Gargolo Historic market at Piazza delle Erbe Salumificio Coccia with its Slow Food delicacy Susianella di Viterbo 🚉 Easy Access 8-minute walk to trains for Rome (Porta Romana station) Cotral buses to regional destinations Rare and precious private garage 🎖️ Awards and Reviews TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award Booking.com score: 8.9/10 (9.5/10 for location) TripAdvisor: 4.5/5 Ranked #2 out of 66 specialty lodgings in Viterbo ✨ Conclusion Palazzo Riario is much more than a hotel—it’s a place of the soul, where beauty isn’t a backdrop but a natural condition. An elegant, authentic, and welcoming oasis for those seeking real emotion and a direct encounter with history. 📌 If you want to experience Viterbo without filters, start here. Welcome to the Renaissance. Welcome to Palazzo Riario.

From historic mansions to the most authentic taverns, from Templar mysteries to cycling trails: everything you need to know to experience Tuscia like a true insider. 🏰 SLEEPING AMONG THE STONES OF HISTORY When Castles Become Home The Tuscia region of Viterbo is home to 48 officially recognized historic residences, an architectural treasure now enjoying a second youth. Many of these residences have been transformed into high-end accommodations, where sleeping literally means living history. Castello di Proceno represents the most fascinating evolution: a scattered hotel where hospitality is spread throughout the entire medieval village along the Via Francigena. Here, you're not sleeping in a hotel, but becoming a temporary resident of an authentically flavored town. Villa La Trinità in Caprarola offers a different but equally magical experience: 200,000 square meters of private parkland with centuries-old oaks, where guests wake up to the scents of a 19th-century garden and dine under stars that have witnessed centuries of history. Residenza Antica Flaminia in Civita Castellana, certified with the Gold Crown by the Residenze d'Epoca, is the perfect example of how an ancient castle can become a contemporary luxury retreat without losing its medieval soul. 🍷 THE GASTRONOMIC UNIVERSE OF VITERBO 47 Places to Eat Like a True Local Viterbo is not just history: it is a gastronomic universe that has preserved authenticity while evolving toward excellence. We have cataloged 47 restaurants, trattorias, and taverns that represent the culinary soul of the city. Historic Legends Osteria Tre Re (1622) holds an absolute record: the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Europe, with only 36 seats and "remarkably modest prices for the quality" (according to the Italian Academy of Cuisine). Federico Fellini once hung his hat here, still preserved at the entrance. Osteria del Vecchio Orologio (1966) has over 50 years of Viterbo tradition. Built entirely of local peperino stone, it uses over 20 suppliers of Tuscia delicacies, and its wine list features only labels from the Tuscia Viterbese. Contemporary Excellence Danilo Ciavattini brings his Michelin star to Viterbo with a cuisine that tells "the story of the countryside and rural life" through ingredients like IGP Viterbo potatoes and local lamb. Casa Iozzìa in Vitorchiano is a miracle of Sicily transplanted into Tuscia: five tables where Lorenzo Iozzia recreates emotional flashbacks that have earned him a place in the Michelin guide. Authentic Flavors In the medieval district of San Pellegrino, L'Archetto offers the most evocative experience: in warm seasons, you dine under a medieval arch between ancient frescoes, with specialties like wild boar ragù strozzapreti and Viterbese acquacotta. Il Richiastro, since 1981 in the historic Palazzo Mazzatosta, offers creative interpretations of medieval Viterbese cuisine, with a wine list focused on Triple A natural wine producers. 🌙 MYSTERIES AND LEGENDS: ESOTERIC TUSCIA Between Noble Ghosts and Templar Knights Tuscia is not only stone and flavors: it’s a land where history and legend intertwine in tales that have shaped collective imagination for centuries. The Ghost of the Pimpaccia Donna Olimpia Pamphilj, the "Pimpaccia" born in Viterbo in 1592, continues to appear every January 7. Her ghost rides through the Roman night in a flaming black carriage, but her Viterbo roots bind her forever to Tuscia, where she died in exile in 1657. The Underground Templars Beneath Viterbo lies a world that preserves traces of the Knights Templar. The Museum of the Templar Knights in Underground Viterbo documents how the city holds a "Templar primacy" in Europe, thanks to Pope Eugene III who launched the Second Crusade from Viterbo in 1145. The underground tunnels once connected the city’s sacred structures and likely hosted clandestine Templar ceremonies even after their official dissolution. The Talking Houses of San Pellegrino In the most extensive and best-preserved medieval quarter in Europe, some carved stones are said to whisper secrets to initiates. The bifore windows, sculpted coats of arms, and antique knockers hold hidden messages used for centuries by various confraternities. 👑 GREAT FAMILIES: POWER AND SYMBOLISM Farnese, Orsini, and the Lords of Tuscia Tuscia was shaped by great noble dynasties who left not only castles and palaces but a complex system of esoteric symbols and encrypted messages. The Farnese: Geometries of Power Villa Farnese in Caprarola is not just architecture: it’s a treatise on hermetic symbolism. The Hall of Angels and the Studiolo hide alchemical messages, while the Labors of Hercules cycle represents the ideal of the enlightened prince. The Bisentina Island on Lake Bolsena became the Farnese family mausoleum and spiritual shrine, while Giulia "la Bella" Farnese still lives in the legends of Vasanello Castle. The Orsini: Alchemy and Ghosts Vicino Orsini created the Sacred Wood in Bomarzo, a garden of hermetic symbols that still holds unresolved mysteries. Orsini Palace and the mysterious Pyramid of Bomarzo complete a unique system of initiatory signals in Europe. The Castle of Soriano nel Cimino is still a place of ghost sightings and legends, while Villa Papacqua preserves alchemical fountains and memories of humanist encounters. 🚴 CYCLING THROUGH HISTORY 500 Km of Trails Between Lakes and Medieval Villages Tuscia offers over 500 km of mapped bike paths, from volcanic lakes to medieval towns, from Etruscan sites to natural spas. The Great Lake Loops The Lake Bolsena Loop (53-56 km) is the most scenic: a mix of asphalt and dirt (60% off-road) passing through Bolsena, Marta, Capodimonte, and Montefiascone. Clockwise direction is recommended to avoid steep climbs. Lake Vico offers a smaller loop (18-20 km), entirely paved in the Nature Reserve, ideal for families and casual cyclists. Via Francigena on Two Wheels The gravel version of the Via Francigena features thrilling stages: the Bolsena-Viterbo-Sutri section (75 km, +1090m) crosses ancient Roman paving of the Via Cassia, passes Bagnaccio thermal baths, and connects historic villages. Technical Mountain Biking For advanced bikers, Monte Fogliano and Lake Vico (29 km, +896m) offer technical single tracks through beech forests, while CAI Trail 103 in the Cimini Mountains (25 km, +800m) is for expert MTB riders only. 🎭 LIVING VITERBO LIKE A LOCAL The Authentic City Beyond Tourism Viterbo truly comes alive when you embrace its slow rhythm. Historic cafés like Grandori under the stone arches of Piazza della Rocca, aimless strolls through San Pellegrino where "only the sound of shoes accompanies those who hear the whispers of ancient stones." Markets and Daily Life The market at Piazza della Vittoria represents living tradition: here, you can still buy Gradoli's Purgatory beans, fresh oil from the Cimini mills, and hand-picked Soriano chestnuts. Everyday Spas Free and historic spas are part of daily life in Viterbo. Drinking from fountains is an ancient ritual renewed daily, while the Terme dei Papi offer luxurious 60-degree thermal waters from the volcanic earth. The Macchina of Santa Rosa On September 3rd, the city transforms for the Macchina di Santa Rosa procession: a 30-meter tall, 5-ton structure carried on the shoulders of 100 men. A UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2013, it is Viterbo’s beating heart, surrounded by stories of miracles and supernatural protection. 🌿 NATURE AND ADVENTURE From the Cimini Mountains to the Tyrrhenian Coast Tuscia is not just culture: it is a land of nature stretching from beech and chestnut forests to pristine beaches. The Cimini Mountains The Cimini Park offers trails through centuries-old beechwoods, fairytale-like chestnut groves, and vistas reaching the sea. The Sasseto Forest in Torre Alfina is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy. The Coastline Montalto di Castro and Tarquinia boast kilometers of beaches with coastal bike paths and flat seaside routes. Hidden Waterfalls Monte Gelato Waterfalls are a natural spectacle near Sutri, while Viterbo's thermal springs offer open-air baths even in winter. 🍇 THE FLAVORS OF THE TERRITORY From Native Grapes to Village Festivals Tuscia is a land of authentic flavors that narrate centuries of rural traditions. Tuscia Wines Native grapes like Aleatico, Grechetto, and yellow Trebbiano produce wines that speak of volcanic terroir. Wineries from Vignanello to Gradoli offer tastings among vineyards overlooking the lakes. Unmissable Festivals The Chestnut Festival of Soriano nel Cimino (October) transforms the medieval village into a month-long celebration. The Hazelnut Festival of Caprarola honors the local IGP product, while the Wild Boar Festival of Canepina serves up game from the Cimini forests. Slow Food Presidia Purgatory Beans from Gradoli, Gray Rabbit from Lazio, and Cimini Hills Olive Oil represent recognized excellence found only here. 🏛️ EVENTS AND FESTIVALS 2025 A Calendar That Never Stops May Tuscia Bike Ride (May 4): Starting from Viterbo through Vitorchiano and Bomarzo Summer Witch Festival in the Bagnaia countryside Concerts in Historic Homes: Villa Lante, Palazzo Farnese White Nights in medieval towns September Macchina di Santa Rosa procession (September 3) Etruscan Randonnée: MTB and gravel routes through art and nature Autumn Chestnut Festival in Soriano nel Cimino (all October) Harvesting in historic wineries 📍 PRACTICAL INFORMATION How to Get Around Tuscia By Car Highway A1: exits Orte, Attigliano, Magliano Sabina Orte-Civitavecchia expressway to the coast By Train Rome-Viterbo railway (Porta Fiorentina station) Orte-Civitavecchia connection to the coast By Bike 500+ km of mapped routes Rental available: Passione e Pedali (Viterbo, Via Saffi 76) Specialized guided tours Airports Rome Fiumicino: 90-120 km Rome Ciampino: 80-100 km Best Periods Spring-Summer: gardens, outdoor activities, spas Autumn: landscape colors, chestnuts, harvest Winter: cozy historic interiors, warm spas Useful Contacts Emergencies: 112 Tourist Info Viterbo: +39 0761 325992 Tusciabikeride: tusciabikeride25@gmail.comCertified Tour Guides: +39 327 3984629 🎯 THE CHANGING TUSCIA New Openings and Projects 2025 Il Babbà 081 (Via della Palazzina 65): Master Pizzaiolo Giuseppe Cravero brings top-tier Neapolitan tradition to Viterbo. N'uovo vino e cucina (Sutri): Entered the Michelin Guide 2025 just a year and a half after opening, with Chef Simone Lezzerini. Gur.me (Via Valle Piatta 5): Stefania Mancini’s new venue blending land and sea, including Italian-style sushi with Chianina carpaccio. 💝 WHY TUSCIA IS UNIQUE Tuscia isn’t a destination: it’s a complete experience. It's the only place on earth where you can: Sleep in a 13th-century castle Dine in the oldest restaurant in Europe Cycle along a 2000-year-old Via Francigena route Discover Templar mysteries in underground tunnels Relax in open-air volcanic hot springs Witness living UNESCO traditions Tuscia is a land of harmonious contrasts: ancient and modern, aristocratic and rustic, mystical and grounded. It’s the perfect place for those seeking authenticity without sacrificing comfort, history without forgetting pleasure, adventure with culture. Viterbolandia will guide you on this complete discovery, where every stone tells a story, every dish hides a tradition, every path leads to a surprise. Tuscia awaits. Not as a tourist, but as a partner in a beauty that has lasted a thousand years and renews itself every day. Welcome to your next love story.

✨ A Nineteenth-Century Gem in the Nature of Tuscia Villa La Trinità è una delle dimore storiche più affascinanti del Lazio. Edificata nel 1889 dal bisnonno degli attuali proprietari, sorge all’interno di un parco secolare di 20 ettari lungo la storica Via Francigena, a soli 45 minuti da Roma e 30 da Viterbo. 🌿 Certificata Corona d’Oro delle Residenze d’Epoca , vanta un rating perfetto di 5/5 su tutte le principali piattaforme di recensione. 🏛 Una Storia di Famiglia e Archeologia Fondata da Vincenzo Nicolini, la villa ingloba i resti di una struttura romana e ha restituito tesori archeologici come: ✨ Un sarcofago romano del 120 d.C. oggi al Metropolitan Museum di New York ✨ Un bassorilievo con gladiatori custodito al Museo Etrusco di Viterbo Oggi è gestita da Paolo e Michela Lazzè, discendenti della famiglia, con passione e cura autentica. 🌳 Architettura e Parco Monumentale Pavimenti in cotto, soffitti in legno profumato Palestra panoramica e sala cinema nei sotterranei voltati 200.000 mq di parco con: Querce d'Orlando, cedri del Libano, pini secolari Giardino all’italiana con 28 varietà di rose Piscina romana recintata con solarium Ambiente elettrosmog-free, ideale per rigenerazione psico-fisica. 🏨 Ospitalità e Eventi di Prestigio 7 camere da letto su 3 livelli Hall, studio, salotto con camino, sala da pranzo Tre modalità di soggiorno: Villa intera (max 13 ospiti) B&B personalizzato Eventi privati (matrimoni, corporate, set cinematografici) 📸 Location per serie TV e campagne Ferragamo SS19 🌿 Matrimoni civili sotto querce secolari 🍽 Cucina e Benessere Cooking class con ricette familiari Chef personalizzato e banqueting in giardino Wine tasting con vini della Tuscia Accesso a spa e centri termali locali 🚁 Esperienze Uniche e Natura Voli in mongolfiera da Magliano Sabina con brindisi champagne Escursioni guidate, equitazione, e-bike Tre golf club accessibili Treja Adventure Park (25 min) con tiro con l'arco e percorsi 🌎 Posizione Strategica Lungo la Via Francigena tra Roma e Viterbo 70 min da Aeroporto Fiumicino Stazione Capranica-Sutri (FL3) Vicina a: Lago di Vico (6 km), Lago di Bracciano (17 km) Villa Farnese (10 km), Siti UNESCO etruschi 🌟 Riconoscimenti 5.0/5 su TripAdvisor e 4.9/5 su Google #1 guest house a Capranica Certificata "Elettrosmog-Free" In registri ufficiali delle Dimore Storiche d’Eccellenza 🌺 Conclusioni Villa La Trinità è molto più di una residenza storica: è un rifugio d’anima per chi cerca bellezza, storia e comfort nella stessa cornice. Adatta a famiglie, eventi di lusso, soggiorni romantici o esperienze culturali, è un vero unicum dell’ospitalità italiana.

Just a step from Rome and a breath away from the Etruscan hills, hidden within the silent folds of the Monterano Nature Reserve , lies a lost city that still speaks — Monterano , or more precisely, the Castle of Canale Monterano , suspended between ruin and rebirth, Baroque and sulfur, historic ghosts and modern film cameras. 📜 A Millennia-Old Story Carved in Stone and Faith The first signs of life date back to the Bronze Age (11th century BC), but it was under Etruscan rule , from the 7th to the 4th century BC, that Monterano became a strategic center of the Caere lucumony . Known to the Romans as Manturianum , it quickly rose in religious importance, becoming an episcopal seat in 313 AD, succeeding Forum Clodii . In the Middle Ages , Monterano was scarred by violent power struggles: in 730 AD, the ambitious Tiberius Petasius attempted a coup against the Empire. Later, under the Anguillara and then the Orsini families, it went through periods of fortune and decline until a slow depopulation began in the 15th century. 👑 The Baroque Dream of the Altieri The great revival came in 1671 , when Pope Clement X , born Emilio Altieri , acquired the estate. It was a strategic move: the Pope entrusted Monterano to the Paluzzi Albertoni , who adopted the Altieri name to preserve its glory. The dream was brought to life by none other than Gian Lorenzo Bernini , the genius of Baroque Rome, who transformed Monterano into a vision. The Church and Convent of San Bonaventura , with its simple nave and now-lost bell towers, still hosts the legendary fig tree growing inside — made famous in Il Marchese del Grillo . The Ducal Palace – the so-called Orsini-Altieri Castle – was redesigned with a six-arch loggia connecting a medieval tower and a Renaissance one. The Lion Fountain , sculpted into stone, symbolized power flowing generously like living water. The 17th-century aqueduct , nine meters tall, winds monumentally through the landscape — a spine of stone, history, and legend. ⚔️ 1799: The Fiery End In March 1799 , it all came to an end. French troops occupying the newborn Roman Republic burned Monterano after a dispute over a grain shipment with Tolfa. It was a brutal reprisal that erased a community already ravaged by malaria, famine, and war . The people finally relocated to Canale Monterano . Since then, the stones speak only with the wind. 🎬 Hollywood Among the Ruins Monterano found its revenge — not as a living city, but as an immortal one on screen. From the Oscar-sweeping Ben-Hur (1959), to Pasolini’s sacred neorealism in The Gospel According to Matthew (1964), and the immortal masks of Totò and Gassman , Monterano has been both setting and protagonist . The fig tree in the church became iconic in Il Marchese del Grillo , where Flavio Bucci played Fra’ Bastiano in one of the most powerful scenes in Italian cinema. And then: Ladyhawke , The Black Arrow , Le tre rose di Eva , The Witches’ Sabbath … A star resume without makeup . 🌿 Nature Reclaims Since 1988 , Monterano is also a Regional Nature Reserve . With over 1,000 hectares of biodiversity, it’s a perfect mosaic of ruin and life — home to wildcats, martens, newts, wild orchids, and even rare prehistoric ferns. The hills are laced with trails leading to sulfur springs , Etruscan cuts , and the mystical Diosilla Waterfall , which shifts color with sunlight and sulfur. 💎 What to See: Recommended Itinerary The Monumental Aqueduct – a spectacular entrance under grand 17th-century arches. Church and Convent of San Bonaventura – with the octagonal fountain and cinematic fig tree. Orsini-Altieri Castle – offering breathtaking views over the Mignone Valley . Other sites: Porta Gradella , Cathedral Bell Tower , Church of San Rocco . Nature trails – from Diosilla Falls to the Sulfur Fields , over wooden bridges and whispering earth. 🗺️ Practical Info From Viterbo : 45 minutes, take the Oriolo Romano exit on the SS675. Recommended parking: Comunaletto (200m walk). Entry: free , open 24 hours. Accessibility: easy , ideal for families. Services: picnic areas , guided tours , visitor center in Canale Monterano. 🔍 Curiosities for Every Taste Devil’s Aqueduct : built in a single night? No, but definitely without mortar! Orsini wine : a legendary harvest reserved only for cardinals and princes. The fig actor : starred with Alberto Sordi , now fighting to survive. Nature persists : between moss and ruins, life always wins . Monterano isn’t just a place — it’s an experience. A ghost town breathing art , a temple of nature embracing history , a page torn from time that rewrites itself under the feet of the curious traveler. Come once, and you’ll return — in dreams.

Ancient Origins Prehistoric foundation : inhabited since the Bronze Age (11th century BC) Etruscan period : important stronghold of the Caere lucumonia (7th-4th century BC) Latin name : Manturianum, later corrupted to Manturanum Roman era : episcopal seat from 313 AD, succeeding Forum Clodii The Middle Ages 6th-7th century : becomes diocese of Monterano replacing Forum Clodii 730 AD : theater of an imperial usurpation attempt with Tiberio Petasio 1300 : fief of the Anguillara, then the Orsini 15th century : period of decline and depopulation 👑 THE GOLDEN AGE: THE ALTIERI FAMILY (1671-1799) Pope Clement X and the Baroque Renaissance 1671 : Pope Clement X (Emilio Bonaventura Altieri) purchases the fief Family strategy : the Paluzzi Albertoni acquire the Altieri surname Gaspare Altieri : becomes Duke of Monterano and patron of the arts The Works of Genius: Gian Lorenzo Bernini Church and Convent of San Bonaventura (1677-1679) : Bernini's design realized by Mattia De' Rossi Single nave with two lateral chapels Dome and two bell towers (no longer existing) The famous fig tree : grown inside, made famous by "The Marquis of Grillo" Ducal Palace (Orsini-Altieri Castle) : Bernini connects the two pre-existing towers with a six-arch loggia Medieval square tower (12th century) and 15th-century circular tower "Whimsical" Lion Fountain : Bernini masterpiece exploiting the rocky foundations Lion striking the rock to make water gush forth Symbol of Altieri power and generosity Octagonal Fountain : In front of the Church of San Bonaventura Today a copy (original in Canale Monterano) The 17th Century Aqueduct Two orders of arches 9 meters high Popular legend: built by the devil Stones fitted together without mortar ⚔️ THE TRAGEDY OF 1799 Historical Context February 1798 : French troops enter Rome Roman Republic : military occupation until September 1799 Anti-French uprisings : in Lazio and central Italy The Pretext and Destruction The grain dispute : conflict between Monterano and Tolfa over a grain shipment March 1799 : sacking and burning by French troops Broader context : repression of rural communities hostile to the French Other sackings : contemporary in Tolfa and Allumiere Definitive Abandonment Multiple causes : malaria, famines, war devastation Migration : population towards Canale Monterano From 1799 : permanent state of ruin 🎬 LEGENDARY FILM SET Famous Films Shot in Monterano Historical epics : Ben-Hur (1959) : 11 Academy Awards The Gospel According to Matthew (1964) : Pasolini's masterpiece Mario Monicelli's comedies : Cops and Robbers (1951) : with Totò Brancaleone at the Crusades (1970) : with Vittorio Gassman The Marquis of Grillo (1981) : iconic scenes with Alberto Sordi Other important films : The Vision of the Sabbath (1988) : Marco Bellocchio Ladyhawke , The Black Arrow , The Three Roses of Eva Fra' Bastiano's Hideout Cult scene : Church of San Bonaventura in "The Marquis of Grillo" The historic fig tree : involuntary protagonist of cinema (partially collapsed in 2022) Flavio Bucci : unforgettable Fra' Bastiano Why Monterano? Proximity to Rome : 1 hour from Cinecittà Reduced costs : natural set without reconstructions Unique atmosphere : romantic decay perfect for cinema 🌿 MONTERANO REGIONAL NATURE RESERVE General Characteristics Establishment : 1988, expanded in 1993 Extension : 1,082 hectares Position : between Tolfa Mountains and Sabatini Mountains SIC : Site of Community Interest for the Mignone River Exceptional Biodiversity Fauna : 142 vertebrate species recorded 24 species in Red Lists at risk of extinction 31% of Italian fauna , 56% of Lazio fauna Rare Species : Amphibians : spectacled salamander, crested newt Birds : European roller, wallcreeper, kingfisher Mammals : wildcat, pine marten, porcupine Bats : greater horseshoe bat, miniopterus Exceptional Flora : Monte Angiano : 27 species of wild orchids + 11 natural hybrids Rare ferns : Osmunda regalis, Blechnum spicant League Oaks : two 400-year-old specimens Geology and Volcanic Phenomena Tolfa-Sabatini formation : marls, argillites, sandstones Sulfataras : sulfurous emanations from the subsoil Diosilla Waterfall : waters colored from rust yellow to blue due to sulfur 💎 WHAT TO SEE: COMPLETE ITINERARY 1. The Roman-17th Century Aqueduct Scenic entrance to the ghost town Imposing arches 9 meters high Legend of the devil builder 2. Church and Convent of San Bonaventura Bernini masterpiece (1677-1679) The historic fig tree grown inside Octagonal fountain in front (copy) Set of "The Marquis of Grillo" 3. Ducal Palace (Orsini-Altieri Castle) Six-arch loggia by Bernini "Whimsical" Lion Fountain Medieval tower and Renaissance tower Panorama over the Mignone Valley 4. Other Monuments Church of San Rocco : 15th century, single nave Cathedral Bell Tower : only remains of the ancient episcopal seat Porta Gradella : well-preserved southern access Wall circuit : remains of fortifications 5. Nature Trails Diosilla Waterfall : Multicolored sulfurous waters Red trail well marked Wooden bridge and caves Sulfataras : Bubbling pools of underground gases Mineral incrustations on rocks Specialized vegetation (Agrostis Albula) The Cavone : Etruscan cutting carved in rock Ancient access road (not passable for safety) 🗺️ PRACTICAL INFORMATION How to Get There from Viterbo SS675 southbound → Oriolo Romano exit Continue to Canale Monterano Time : about 45 minutes Final road : 2 km dirt road (passable with any car) Parking and Access Comunaletto Parking (recommended): Closest to the ruins (200m on foot) Direct access to the aqueduct Diosilla Parking : For hiking enthusiasts Complete route : waterfall → sulfataras → ruins 3.5 km total Hours and Costs Access : free and open 24h Animals : allowed on leash Difficulty : easy for families and children Visit time : 2-4 hours depending on itinerary Services Picnic tables in the reserve Information point in Canale Monterano Guided tours by reservation Visitor center with informational materials 🔍 CURIOSITIES AND ANECDOTES The Mystery of the Aqueduct Popular legend : built by the devil in one night Construction technique : stones fitted without mortar Historical reality : masterpiece of 17th-century hydraulic engineering The Legendary Harvest Orsini era : Monterano wine celebrated throughout Italy Exceptional quality : "has no equal drink in all Italy" Limited production : reserved for few prelates The Ghosts of Cinema The Marquis's fig tree : involuntary protagonist of cinema Natural set : no reconstruction necessary Cinematic continuity : from Ben-Hur to modern fiction Nature Reclaiming Perfect balance : ruins and vegetation Fig in the church : symbol of natural rebirth Unique habitat : fauna living among historical ruins 📰 JOURNALISTIC ANGLES For Tourist Audience "The Pompeii of Lazio" : city crystallized in time Perfect weekend : nature, history and cinema Instagrammable : dream location for photographers For History Enthusiasts The last Bernini : lesser-known works of the master 1799: terrible year : anti-French uprisings in Lazio Industrial archaeology : sulfur mines and extractive activities For Film Buffs Hollywood in Tuscia : how Monterano conquered cinema Location scouting : behind the scenes of great films The actor fig tree : when nature becomes protagonist For Naturalists Record biodiversity : record numbers in Lazio Rare ferns : hidden botanical jewels Volcanic ecosystem : life in the sulfataras

“Every stone is a seal, every fresco a spell, every breath a tale that escapes logic.” 👁️‍🗨️ Prelude – The Arcane Breath of an Untamed Land In the secret folds of central Italy lies Tuscia , a land shaped by the fire of volcanoes and the skilled hands of the Etruscans. Here, castles scented with noble tears, gardens conceived as soul labyrinths, and pyramids carved in tuff ignite the imagination of those willing to cross the threshold of the unknown. 👻 Specters of Honor and Vengeance in the Orsini Castles 🏰 The Ghost of Isabella de’ Medici – Bracciano Poet, polyglot, Renaissance icon: Isabella seems not to have accepted the fate that saw her (perhaps) strangled by her husband, Paolo Giordano Orsini , in 1576. On full moon nights, some swear they see her cloaked in sixteenth-century brocades, brushing the battlements of the castle or walking across the mirrored waters of the lake, searching for the peace denied by a love stained with blood. 🕯️ The Curse of Soriano nel Cimino In 1559, Giovanni Caraffa , nephew of a Pope, ordered the assassination of the chamberlain Marcello Capece , and later of his wife Violante Diaz Carlon in Gallese. It is said that Marcello’s sighs still echo through the castle’s underground halls, reaching the walls of Gallese where Violante’s footsteps stir the imagination of the most sensitive listeners. 🛡️ Caprarola – The Pentagon of Wonders 🌜 The Room of Dreams – Palazzo Farnese Cardinal Alessandro Farnese turned his winter chamber into an esoteric manifesto: Jacob’s Dream reigns on the ceiling, a mystical ladder between earth and heaven. Angels descend bringing comfort to the uncertain, while alchemical symbols trace secret paths to lost knowledge. ⚖️ The Antechamber of Angels Here, goodness breaks in and triumphs: Saint Michael defeats Lucifer in a sky that seems to open above visitors. Striking a precise spot on the floor produces unexplained echoes—whispers from another time that, legend has it, the Cardinal used to astonish the initiated. 🔺 Bomarzo – Pyramids, Sacred Woods and Petrified Monsters ⛰️ The Etruscan Pyramid (or Preacher’s Rock) Dimensions: 16 meters of solid tuff, 35–50 hand-carved steps. Purpose: sacrificial altar? astral observatory? or an echo of pre-Etruscan Rinaldonian cults (4th millennium BCE)? Revealing details: blood channels, holes for wooden beams, votive niches. Around it: cave dwellings, necropolises, sunken roads—a whole mystery complex carved into the wild Tacchiolo hills. 🌳 The Sacred Wood of Bomarzo – A Labyrinth of the Soul Vicino Orsini , guided by Pirro Ligorio , shaped a park that broke all perspective rules: The Ogre welcomes travelers: “All thoughts fly.” The Turtle carries Nike, uniting the lowest with the highest. Warring Giants evoke inner battles. A funerary temple seals the alchemical rebirth amidst phoenixes and zodiac symbols. 💦 Villa Lante – When Water Becomes Doctrine Vignola designed an ascending path where water symbolizes grace: from the Grotto of the Flood (baptism), along the Chain of Water (Christ’s life), to the Fountain of the Moors (redeemed humanity), and the Perfect Square (New Jerusalem). Wild nature and human order mirror each other in spiritual speculation. 🎨 Art as a Ciphered Language Symbol Alchemical Matter Human Organ Planet ☀️ Sun Gold Heart Sol 🌙 Moon Silver Brain Luna 🜍 Mercury Mercury Lungs Mercury ♀ Venus Copper Kidneys Venus Leonardo, Dürer, Bosch, Parmigianino : each one scattered enigmas in their works—talking of raw matter, transmutation, resurrection. The Hermetic principle “As above, so below” infuses canvases, engravings, and ceilings, turning them into true magical talismans. 🗝️ Unsolved Mysteries – Questions That Still Burn Who were the Rinaldonians , really? What codes lie hidden in the Sacred Wood’s inscriptions? Why did Alessandro Farnese choose the pentagonal shape? How can we interpret the monsters of Bomarzo as a unified vision? Are there secret tunnels linking esoteric villas and castles? Researchers, artists, and travelers follow these questions’ trails, drawn by the magnetic aura of a territory that still promises discoveries powerful enough to change our understanding of the past. 🔮 Epilogue – Where the Impossible Is the Rule Visiting Tuscia means crossing the threshold of the known. Among pyramids carved in tuff and angels descending from painted ceilings, the traveler becomes an initiate: they listen to the stones’ vibrations, read messages etched in the gardens’ greenery, and sense subtle forces that transcend history. Those who return from these places carry a certainty in their heart: the mystery is not a veil to be lifted—it is the most fascinating of truths . And while “every thought flies” at the threshold of the Ogre’s mouth, we remain suspended between the heartbeat of legend and the echo of a wisdom still whispering, patiently, among shadowy lake shores and tuff cliffs. “Within the possible lies the ordinary; in the unknown, the sublime blossoms.”

In the silence of the woods surrounding Caprarola, a palace of perfect geometry whispers ancient formulas. It is not merely stone: it is code, it is enigma, it is vision. 🔮 The Alchemist Prince 👑 Alessandro Farnese: The Cardinal of the Stars Nephew of Pope Paul III, Cardinal Alessandro Farnese the Younger embodied the dream of the Renaissance: erudite, visionary, patron of the arts, and lover of the occult. Not merely a powerful churchman, but an initiate—an alchemist—who sought to transform his residence into a true philosophical machine. ⚗️ Alchemy as a Map of Power Alchemy was not a courtly pastime, but a royal path: the “Great Work” was both the transmutation of matter and the perfection of the soul. The palace itself became a symbolic laboratory where every fresco, every room, every painted animal represented a phase, a passage, a revelation. 🏛️ Magical Architecture ⭐ A Pentagonal Palace Five sides, five towers, five elements. The pentagonal floorplan reflects the deepest hermetic symbolism. Each tower corresponds to a planet. Each angle is an energetic gateway. A star of Cornelius Agrippa engraved in stone. ⛰️ The Circular Courtyard: Microcosm and Center of the World At the heart, a perfect round courtyard designed by Vignola: a synthesis of earth and sky, body and spirit. A place of mystical resonance, with vaulted ceilings frescoed by Antonio Tempesta guiding the initiate along the inner path. 🕵️‍♂️ The Studiolo of Hermathena ♀️♂️ The Perfect Androgyne In the secret heart of the palace, the studiolo of Hermathena: Hermes and Athena fused into a single deity. Wisdom and eloquence, male and female, action and contemplation. The alchemical Rebis—the ultimate goal of hermetic knowledge. 🤍 The Sanctuary of Knowledge Here, in this intimate chamber, the cardinal studied, meditated, transformed. A studiolo like that of Francesco I de’ Medici: microcosms of scrolls, reagents, and ciphered manuscripts. Laboratories of the soul. 🥀 The Labors of Hercules: The Prince’s Initiation 🌟 Myth and Power Twelve labors. Twelve zodiac signs. Twelve steps on the spiritual ascent of the sovereign. Each fresco is a trial of the soul: slaying the Hydra, capturing the Boar, stealing the Apples of the Hesperides. Hercules is Alessandro. Myth becomes destiny. 🌿 The Lake Born of a Spear In the myth, Hercules drives his spear into the Cimini Mountains and Lake Vico is born. In reality, the cardinal reclaims, orders, and governs the waters. A civilizing act, a transmutative power. The mythical gesture becomes political. 🌌 The Map Room: Astrology of Command 🌌 A Celestial Vault to Govern the Earth Above, the map of the sky: fifty constellations, precise configurations, celestial circles drawn with mastery. The ceiling becomes an astrological calculator, a mirror of destiny, a cosmic guarantor of Farnese legitimacy. 🔐 Coded Constellations Each sign, each figure, is a message. The stars are not mere decoration but allies. The frescoes reveal (to those who know how to read) dynastic secrets, initiatory visions, and celestial maps to guide both politics and the soul. 💫 Alchemical Love: Ariadne, Bacchus, and Mercury 🥂 The Harmony of Opposites Ariadne crowned with stars. Bacchus in ecstasy. Mercury with his trumpet. Spirit and flesh, wine and wisdom, earth and sky. The union of opposites as the key to happiness and perfection. 🌠 Mercury: The Alchemical Pontiff Not the caduceus, but the trumpet—heralding a new era. Messenger, alchemist, god of the threshold. The Mercury of the palace is no mere ornament but the guardian of transformation. 🎭 Initiatory Art: Painting as Code 👩‍🎨 Initiated Masters Federico and Taddeo Zuccari, Bertoja, Giovanni de Vecchi—painters as priests, frescoes as grimoires. The fresco technique, with its ritualistic stages, mirrors the steps of the alchemical process. Art becomes rite. 🐾 Grotesques and Alicorns Dragons, storks, owls, unicorns—each animal a symbol, each grotesque a riddle. The Farnese alicorn, hidden yet omnipresent, stands watch as a magical seal over the house of knowledge. ⚖️ Neoplatonism and Power 🌐 The Cosmic Staircase From the ground floor to the piano nobile: an initiatory ascent. Matter, court, spirit. Each level of the palace mirrors a level of the soul. Philosophy and architecture intertwine in the Platonic hierarchy of being. ✨ Harmony as Legitimation Beauty leads to the divine. Spiritual love justifies power. The cardinal is not just a prince—he is a cosmic mediator, a priest of beauty, a regent of harmony. 🌿 A Living Legacy 🏫 A Palace That Still Speaks Today, Palazzo Farnese is a document, a temple, a stage. To visit it is a pilgrimage into the soul of the Renaissance. Every fresco is an invitation. Every room, a threshold. 🌍 Esoteric Tuscia Villa Lante, the Sacred Wood of Bomarzo, Caprarola: a magic triangle. A land where mystery becomes landscape. Where the Renaissance is not past, but living code. Article by Giano di Vico – seeker of symbols and traveler through the folds of time .

🚴 COMPLETE MAP OF CYCLING ROUTES IN TUSCIA 2025 Verified and updated itineraries for all types of cycling 🏔️ MOUNTAIN BIKE (MTB) – TECHNICAL TRAILS 🔴 High Difficulty – Experts Only Monte Fogliano and Lake Vico (29 km) Start: Vetralla/Caprarola Elevation gain: +896m, technical with single tracks Highlights: Beech forest, lake view, technical descents GPS tracks: Available on Wikiloc and Komoot CAI Trail 103 – Monti Cimini (25 km) Start: Soriano nel Cimino Elevation gain: +800m, very technical Terrain: Challenging paths and dirt roads Note: For experienced MTB riders only Via dei Tusci – Valle dei Calanchi (90 km) Tiber-Bolsena loop, mostly unpaved Passes through Civita di Bagnoregio Suitable for MTB, e-bike, or gravel GPX tracks available upon request 🟡 Medium Difficulty Anguillara-Martignano-Trevignano-Bracciano Loop (51 km) Scenic ride between lakes Elevation gain: +650m Mixed paved and unpaved segments Tarquinia: Civita Loop (21 km) White roads and trails Archaeological and rural landscape Perfect for discovering the Etruscan territory Montefiascone-Lake Bolsena (gravel) Starting from Montefiascone Panoramic lake views, gravel bike recommended Multiple loop options available 🌾 GRAVEL BIKE – MIXED TERRAIN ROUTES 🟢 All Levels Lake Bolsena Loop (53–56 km) Mixed surface (60% unpaved) Elevation: +484m Villages: Bolsena, Marta, Capodimonte, Montefiascone Best direction: Clockwise to avoid steep climbs Via Francigena Gravel: Siena–Rome (Tuscia Stage) Bolsena–Viterbo–Sutri: 75 km, +1090m Ancient Roman paving stones (Via Cassia) Highlights: Bagnaccio thermal springs, medieval towns Organized tours available Sutri–Lake Vico–Capranica (54 km) Scenic nature-history loop Max elevation gain: +698m Ideal asphalt/dirt mix Also suitable for e-bikes 🔵 Intermediate Level Civita di Bagnoregio from Lake Bolsena Start: Lake Bolsena shore Challenging climbs to Bagnoregio Iconic view of the “dying city” Note: Civita is pedestrian access only 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 CYCLE TOURING & FAMILY ROUTES 🟢 Easy – Family Friendly Lake Vico Loop (18–20 km) Fully paved loop in Natural Reserve Minimal elevation, child-friendly Beech and chestnut forest views Picnic areas available Capranica–Sutri–Lake Vico (15 km) Asphalt bike path Easy route through villages and nature Ideal for beginners and families Viterbo–Porta Faul–Terme dei Papi (3 km) Urban pedestrian and bike path City center to thermal baths link Perfect for a relaxing short ride Coastal Trails – Montalto di Castro Various distances available Connects Torre di Maremma to the beach Flat seaside routes 🟡 Intermediate for Families Nepi–Ronciglione–Monte Antenne (48 km) Scenic bike-pedestrian trail Gentle hills Perfect for fit families Oriolo–Lake Vico (21 km) Mixed nature path Moderate physical challenge Beautiful views of the Cimini Mountains 🛤️ VIA FRANCIGENA & HISTORIC ROUTES Official Bike Stages Stage B21: Viterbo–Sutri (37.9 km) Elevation gain: +850m/-876m, medium difficulty Passes through Vetralla and Capranica Mostly asphalt with some dirt sections Stage B22: Sutri–Formello (34.2 km) Roman countryside, secondary roads Waterfalls of Monte Gelato Stage B23: Formello–Rome (35 km) Elevation gain: +549m Ends along the Tevere Cycle Path Final destination: St. Peter’s Basilica Alternative Via Francigena Route Rome–Viterbo “Reverse Route” (118 km) Surface: 60% dirt, 30% gravel, 10% paved Elevation gain: +1435m Challenging yet scenic ride Villages: Formello, Sutri, Capranica, Ronciglione 🌊 LAKE ROUTES Lake Bolsena 🟢 Tourist Route (53 km) Marked signage, easy route Rest areas: Montefiascone, Marta, Capodimonte Birdwatching observatories Services: bike rentals, picnic spots 🟡 Shortened MTB Route (47 km) More dirt, less pavement Slightly more demanding For experienced cyclists Lake Vico 🟢 Paved Loop (18 km) Fully asphalted Protected Natural Reserve Only two tourist settlements Panoramas: Monte Venere, Monte Fogliano 🔴 Monte Fogliano Loop (29 km) Technical trails through beech forest Elevation gain: +400m, difficult Adventure trail available Experts only (MTB) 🏛️ ARCHAEOLOGICAL & CULTURAL ROUTES Etruscan Land Tarquinia–Bracciano–Cerveteri (83 km) Asphalt route connecting UNESCO sites Necropolises, countryside, coastline Ideal for cultural bike touring Tuscania–Etruscan Necropolises Loops from 15–30 km Visit Romanesque basilicas Rock-cut archaeological sites Civita di Bagnoregio & Calanchi Valleys Orvieto–Civita di Bagnoregio (18 km) Start from Orvieto cliff Surreal landscape of the calanchi Ends at panoramic viewpoint (Civita access on foot) Calanchi Valley Tours (Variable) Routes from 20–50 km Unique geological formations Suitable for gravel and MTB 📅 EVENTS & FESTIVALS 2025 Fixed Events 🚴 Tuscia Bike Ride – May 4, 2025 Start: Viterbo (Tuscia Shopping Center) Routes: Viterbo–Vitorchiano–Bomarzo Includes rest stops and support Registration: tusciabikeride25@gmail.com 🚵 Randonnée degli Etruschi (Various Dates) MTB and gravel routes Combines art and nature Different difficulty levels Organized Tours 🌟 Lake Bolsena 4-Day Tour (Viaggiareinbici) 3 nights in *** lakefront hotel GPX tracks, van support MTB/E-bike rental available Route: Bolsena–Orvieto–Sorano 🛠️ RESOURCES & SERVICES Maps & GPX Files 🗺️ Piste-ciclabili.com : Viterbo province database 📲 Komoot: Gravel, MTB, touring collections 🧭 Wikiloc: Community reviews and GPS 🧡 PedaliAmo la Tuscia : Local detailed mapping Rental & Assistance 🚲 Passione e Pedali (Viterbo, Via Saffi 76) Guided tours, e-bike rentals Specialists in Tuscia cycling www.passioneapedali.com 🏨 Hotel da Benedetta (Vetralla) Bike sharing & Via Francigena tours City bikes & e-bikes available Nazareth Residence Viterbo Services for Cyclists and Bike Tourists 🚲 Bike Room equipped with a small workshop for repairs and basic maintenance. 🚴‍♂️ Bike allowed in the room 🧼 Bike wash station 👕 Self-service laundry 🌐 www.nazarethresidence.com 🌐 www.bikehotelviterbo.com Cyclist-Friendly Lodging Lake Vico: La Bella Venere, Rivafiorita Lake Bolsena: Multiple bike-friendly hotels Sutri: Via Francigena-certified accommodations Viterbo: Historic center with full services 🚨 IMPORTANT NOTES ⚠️ Safety & Preparation MTB required for 🔴 technical trails Gravel bike ideal for mixed terrain E-bikes recommended for beginners on hilly routes Always wear a helmet & carry repair kit Check weather – some trails not accessible when wet 🌍 Sustainability Respect protected areas (Lake Vico & Bolsena Reserves) Use marked trails only Do not disturb wildlife Support eco-friendly accommodations 📱 USEFUL CONTACTS 🚨 Emergencies: 112 🏛️ Viterbo Tourist Info: +39 0761 325992 🌿 Lake Vico Reserve: Local info points available 🚵 Tuscia Bikers MTB: www.tusciabikersmtb.it 🗣️ Tuscia Tourist Guides: +39 327 3984629 📍 Map updated July 2025 – All information verified via official sources and local networks. 🌟 Tuscia offers over 500 km of mapped cycling routes , from volcanic lakes to medieval villages, from Etruscan sites to natural hot springs. A dream destination for every kind of cyclist!

There is a place, along the ancient roads of time, where eternity took root among legendary oaks and imperial sarcophagi. That is where Villa La Trinità rises — a noble home that doesn’t just host, but welcomes like a story whispered at twilight. 📖 1 | A Tapestry of Stories, Visions, and Revivals Not far from the Roman Via Cassia and the pilgrim paths of the Via Francigena, Villa La Trinità does not simply appear — it reveals itself . Built between 1872 and 1894 by the Nicolini family, it is the tangible expression of a time that sought to tame the land with grace and vision. 🧭 Not just any villa, but a true crossroads of: Memories of the Roman Empire Medieval legends of Charlemagne’s Paladins 19th-century landscape aesthetics shaped by human intent 🪶 Today, the estate is still owned by the Nicolini family , and what it offers is not just accommodation, but an authentic portion of their identity : a personal, discreet, sincere hospitality, where every detail speaks of those who have lived, grown, and dreamed there. 🏛️ 2 | A Land Consecrated by History The Sarcophagus of the Seasons ⚱️ Discovered in 1889, carved with myths of Theseus and Ariadne, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York . 📜 It proves that this land was already sacred in the 2nd century A.D. Other artifacts: 🗿 Bas-relief of Gladiators – currently at the Archaeological Museum of Viterbo 🧱 Roman walls and basalt paving stones still visible in the grounds 🌿 Roman relics framed by concentric boxwood hedges, blending history into the landscape 🌳 3 | A Park That Breathes Legend “These trees don’t cast shade — they protect.” A romantic garden spanning 20 hectares 🌲 Avenues of cypress and pine 🌰 Orlando’s Oaks , linked to the epic tales of Roland and the Paladins 🌳 Cedars of Lebanon and the Atlas – symbols of nobility, eternity, and sacredness 🌿 Laurels, boxwood, viburnum – a narrative landscape made of symbols 🎭 The result is a timeless stage , suspended between knightly poetry and botanical spirituality. 🛏️ 4 | Hospitality as an Act of Love Villa La Trinità is not a hotel — it’s an invitation into someone’s home. Unique features: 🛌 Just 4 bedrooms – ensuring absolute intimacy 🏺 Antique furnishings & modern comforts – exposed beams, original terracotta floors 🎬 Cinema room, gym, private pool – all within the semi-basement, in harmony with original aesthetics 🧘‍♀️ Spaces for yoga, meditation, massage, solarium – for deep regeneration 🤍 Guests are not clients. They are temporary witnesses of a living story . 🍷 5 | Exclusive Experiences That Taste of the Land Gastronomy & Wine 🍽️ Private dinners with a chef 🍷 Guided tastings of local wines and products 👩‍🍳 Cooking classes with family recipes Nature & Adventure 🎈 Hot-air balloon flights over Tuscia 🚴‍♀️ E-bikes, trekking, horseback riding, forest bathing 🌲 Guided walks along the Via Francigena Wellness 🏊 Private pool, gym, yoga 💆 On-demand massages ♨️ Access to nearby thermal spas Culture 🏛️ Private tours of historic villages and archaeological sites (Sutri, Caprarola, Viterbo) 📸 Artistic photo shoots and family portraits 🗺️ Custom day trips to Rome 🌟 6 | A Seal of Excellence 🏅 Corona d’Oro by Residenze d’Epoca 📜 Registered in the Italian Registry of Historic Residences 💍 A sought-after venue for weddings, private events, and film productions Villa La Trinità is not just a place to experience — it’s a place to narrate : every stay leaves a mark, like a thread of ink embroidered onto the diary of time . 🔮 Conclusion: Where Time Is Not Spent, but Cultivated Villa La Trinità is not a luxury escape — it’s a conscious return. A path among Roman stones and oak roots, beneath the watchful eyes of Cedars of Lebanon. A refuge where every guest becomes a guardian , and every season, a new chapter. ✨ This villa is the story you choose to live in. To live the experience: 👉 www.villalatrinita.com ✍️ Article by Giano di Vico — wandering chronicler of homes that still know how to whisper.

It is neither a museum nor a hotel. It is a home — a home where time has chosen to pause with grace, inviting you to enter on tiptoe. 🌿 A Residence That Isn’t Told — It’s Lived In that fertile and discreet land between the Cimini Mountains and Lake Vico lies a noble secret whispered through the centuries: Castello Ruspoli in Vignanello . But calling it a “castle” doesn’t do it justice. It’s a Renaissance salon on a monumental scale , a place where every stone bears the invisible signature of a family that has never left its story behind. Still today, the Ruspoli descendants spend their summers here. And when the great doors open to guests, they do so with the grace of those who are not selling an experience , but offering trust . 🌸 The Garden of Wonders Commissioned in 1610 by Ottavia Orsini , daughter of the famous Vicino Orsini (creator of the Sacred Grove of Bomarzo), the Italian garden of Castello Ruspoli is a botanical symphony written on a geometric score . A masterpiece of boxwood parterres, hedges trimmed with clockmaker’s precision, and perspectives worthy of a Roman palace. It’s not just one of the most beautiful in Italy — it’s considered one of the best-preserved Renaissance gardens in all of Europe . Walking through it feels like stepping into a living painting . 🍷 Live the Castle — Don’t Just Visit At Castello Ruspoli , you don’t just stay — you participate . Here, hospitality is a gentle ritual , never invasive, but rich with authenticity: 👩‍🍳 Traditional cooking classes with family recipes 🚴‍♂️ Bicycle rides through vineyards and rolling hills 🍽️ Private dinners beneath antique chandeliers, where every dish tells a story 📜 Narrated tours by the owners themselves, who open both salons and memories Every experience is tailor-made , designed for the few — like a handwritten letter in a world of automated emails. 🎩 Not Clients, But Temporary Custodians Here, there’s no reception desk or minibar. There are creaking doors, real libraries, lit fireplaces , and salons where you sit and speak with those who know every corner of this world. Luxury? Yes — but not the kind made of gold and marble . The real luxury lies in joining something that’s alive . Being welcomed not by a hotelier , but by a family that passes down tradition , and for a few precious days, feeling part of that centuries-old narrative . 🕯 A Journey That Stays With You Staying at Castello Ruspoli is not a gift for social media — it’s a gift for the soul . It’s the kind of journey you don’t tell through photos , but that clings to you like an ancient fragrance , like a gentle education . An experience that redefines the meaning of “cultural travel” , turning it into emotional involvement , into a civic gesture : those who cross its threshold help keep a true story alive . ✨ Come to Vignanello, where the Renaissance has chosen never to end. For information and reservations: 👉 www.ruspolievents.com 👉 Instagram: @castelloruspoli Text by Giano di Vico, chronicler of the invisible and seeker of homes that still speak to the heart.

A Longobard manor that walks through the centuries — inviting you to dance among stone walls, enchanted woods, and glasses of wine. Ecco la traduzione completa in inglese in perfetto stile “Viterbolandia”, mantenendo tono evocativo, struttura agile e icone: 📜 1 | Overview in Three Heartbeats Altitude : 602 m on the Alfina Plateau, where Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany meet. Years of history : 1,300+ (but it doesn’t show them). Titles : “One of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” (2007) & “Fairy Tale Forest” according to National Geographic. ⏳ 2 | Flash Timeline Century Main Figures Highlights 8th The Lombards Watchtower on the Via Francigena 13th–19th Monaldeschi della Cervara Renaissance courtyard & frescoes (Scalza & Nebbia) 1880–1930 Cahen d’Anvers & arch. Partini Neo-Gothic makeover in Bagnoregio stone, Duchêne gardens (Within the walls: portraits of Matilde Serao, Gabriele D’Annunzio — and even an imperial Chinese boat from 1865.) 🏗️ 3 | “Onion-Style” Architecture Cassero Tower – the Longobard core. Renaissance Courtyard – arcades, monumental fireplace, Monaldeschi coat of arms. Four crenellated towers – Partini raised them like Italian Highlanders. Interiors – boiserie by Tito Corsini, frescoes by Pietro Ridolfi, water-lifting wheel (ingenious 19th-century hydraulics). 🌳 4 | Sasseto Forest: Where Nature Writes Fairy Tales 60 hectares of beeches, holm oaks, mountain elms, moss‑covered lava stones. Natural Monument & part of Monte Rufeno Reserve (wolves, porcupines, 1,000+ plant species). At twilight — legend says — the Witch Mother guards the paths while “Fairies” dance around Marquis Cahen’s neo-Gothic mausoleum. 👻 5 | Friendly Ghosts & Full Moon Metamorphoses The Restless Lady – high heels echo in the courtyard. Generoso – blankets the castle in fog as a prank (cheeky, not malevolent). Wolf Fountain – one sip and it’s a night of howling; believe it… or better not try. 🎟️ 6 | Experiences to Bookmark 🔑 What ⏰ Duration 💶 Price* Guided Tour 50 min / every 30 min Full: €10 · Reduced: €5 Escape Room “A.D. 1337” 90 min By reservation Fairytale Wedding Up to 400 guests Tailored packages *Prices as of 2025: always check the official site. Extras: falconry shows, fireworks, horse-drawn carriage, bridal suite. 🍝 7 | Flavours & Festivals of the Village Wild boar pappardelle (Ferragosto). Wine Festivals (late July to mid-August) 🍷. Farm-to-cone gelato , even in winter. Torre Alfina Blues Festival (July) 🎶. Feast of the Madonna del Santo Amore (September) 🙏. 🗺️ 8 | Nearby Itineraries Acquapendente – “Jerusalem of Europe” (Holy Sepulchre Chapel). Via Francigena – pilgrim trail 2.0 toward Rome. Tuscia’s Castles – Onano, Proceno, Bolsena: fortresses, towers, and lakeside sunsets. 💡 9 | Why Come (and Come Back) Multisensory : stone, legend, foliage, food & wine. Instagram-ready : Gothic corners + fantasy forest. Accessible : 2 h from Rome, 1 h 15 from Siena, 30 min from Orvieto. Customizable : quick visit, romantic weekend, corporate event, wedding of dreams. 📞 10 | Quick Contacts Bookings (tours & events) : official site → online form. Parking : free, 300 m from the drawbridge. Spectral dress code : black cloak suggested on full moon nights (optional… but stylish). ✨ In Conclusion Torre Alfina Castle isn’t a place , it’s a time : each stone opens a portal, each trail in the Sasseto tells a chapter of a living tale. Come discover the Tuscia that dreams aloud — and leave some room in your backpack: the secrets here love to be carried away, whispering softly even once you’re home. — Giano di Vico, with pen, compass, and a glass of Orvieto Classico in hand

Where hospitality becomes a journey through time In the heart of the ancient Via Francigena, between the borders of Lazio, Tuscany, and Umbria, lies a place that enchants with authenticity and beauty: Castello di Proceno . But calling it simply a “castle” would be an understatement. This is not just a place to stay—it’s a village to inhabit, a place to walk among centuries-old walls and experience an encounter between history, hospitality, and charm in perfect balance. 🏡 A Scattered Hotel Built from Medieval Stone Castello di Proceno is one of the pioneers of the albergo diffuso  concept. Its rooms are not gathered under one roof, but spread throughout the ancient village houses, carefully restored and transformed into elegant apartments and suites.Each comes with a private entrance, garden or terrace, period furnishings, and modern comforts— all within a context that has preserved its medieval soul . 🌿 History, Charm, and High-Level Amenities 🏊 Outdoor pool with panoramic views 🍷 Restaurant and wine cellar within the castle walls 📚 Library, panoramic terraces, gardens, and courtyards 🐾 Pet-friendly, free Wi-Fi, private parking, shuttle on request The castle also hosts a small medieval museum , walking paths along the ancient ramparts, and salons preserving original elements from the 13th to 15th centuries. 📚 A Place with a Soul Built between the 13th and 15th centuries to defend the village from valley invaders, the castle has belonged for centuries to the Cecchini family , who still manage it today with passion and historical reverence.The restoration was carried out with philological care: not a tourist set, but an authentic, lived-in place. 💬 What Guests Say “We stayed with our two children—an unforgettable experience thanks to the family’s impeccable hospitality.”“It feels like living a fairytale... the pool is magical, absolute silence.”“Incredible atmosphere—being in the village feels like stepping into another era.” 🌟 Why Visit Castello di Proceno? Feature Detail 🏰 Authentic castle Medieval pentagonal fortress with a working drawbridge 🏡 Scattered hospitality Apartments throughout the village, tastefully furnished 🍽️ Refined services Pool, restaurant, events, library, and gardens ⭐ Excellent reviews 9.1/10 on Booking, top-rated on Tripadvisor for charm & service 📅 Recommended Experiences Guided historical tours of the castle and village Wine tastings and gourmet dinners at the enoteca Cooking classes and medieval culture workshops Nature hikes, horseback riding, and walks along the Via Francigena 📞 Contact Information 📍 Corso Regina Margherita, 155 – Proceno (VT) 📞 Phone: +39 0763 710072 🌐 Website: www.castellodiproceno.it ✨ An Invitation to Slow Down At Castello di Proceno , you don’t just stay—you live . You breathe in the stone, you listen to the silence of the courtyards, you sleep within walls that have witnessed centuries, and you rediscover the rarest luxury of all: time .For those seeking authenticity, culture, and beauty, this is an essential stop in a Tuscia that resists and enchants. Chiedi a ChatGPT

When Castles Become Home: A New Kind of Luxury Between History and Hospitality VITERBOLANDIA EDITORIAL The Tuscia region of Viterbo holds one of Italy’s most fascinating architectural heritages—a mosaic of castles, patrician villas, medieval towers, and noble residences that have shaped the landscape of Upper Lazio for centuries. Today, many of these historic dwellings are experiencing a new life, transformed into sophisticated accommodations that blend the elegance of the past with contemporary comfort. A RENAISSANCE THAT TELLS STORIES Tuscia is home to 48 officially recognized historic residences, an architectural treasure trove ranging from monumental complexes to noble villas, fortified castles to ancient ecclesiastical estates. Built over the centuries by popes, princes, and aristocratic families, these landmarks are now enjoying a second youth thanks to a growing trend: the transformation of historic estates into high-end hospitality venues. The trend of luxury hospitality in historic buildings is much more than a new frontier in tourism—it is a process of cultural revalorization that helps preserve and bring life to historically rich properties, making them accessible to travelers in search of authentic and refined experiences. THE CHARM OF THE ALBERGO DIFFUSO A pioneer of this movement is the Castello di Proceno , an “albergo diffuso” located along the Via Francigena in a medieval village. Here, hospitality is spread across the urban fabric of the town itself, offering an immersive experience where visitors become temporary residents of an authentically preserved village. PERIOD RESIDENCES: THE LUXURY OF HISTORY The Residenze d’Epoca  circuit—with its rigorous certification protocol involving up to 150 quality checks—guarantees exceptionally high standards in properties such as the Residenza Antica Flaminia  in Civita Castellana, a sixteenth-century gem born from the restoration of the ancient Castello di Gargarasi , perched dramatically above the Treja Valley. The transformation of these manors into hospitality venues is never casual. It’s the result of painstaking restoration projects that respect the original architecture and enhance its unique features: period frescoes, coffered ceilings, Italian gardens, and Renaissance loggias become the stage for a truly exclusive hospitality experience. LANDSCAPES THAT CAPTIVATE Villa La Trinità , nestled in 200,000 square meters of private parkland with centuries-old oaks and tree-lined avenues, perfectly embodies the blend of nature and architecture. This nineteenth-century villa, built in 1889, offers more than a stay—it invites guests to enjoy wine tastings, hot-air balloon flights, and wellness experiences immersed in the green hills of Tuscia. THE EXCELLENCE OF HOSPITALITY What truly sets these structures apart is not just their architectural beauty, but the obsessive attention to detail in their service. The Relais Santa Caterina , a former 18th-century farmhouse with a pool and large garden, is a prime example: uniquely furnished rooms and a highly qualified staff embody a philosophy of excellence. A TERRITORY TO DISCOVER Strategically located between Rome and Tuscany, Tuscia is an ideal departure point for extraordinary cultural itineraries. Castello di Torre Alfina , with its imposing towers and courtyards, offers sweeping views over the Acquapendente valley in the heart of historic Tuscia. Meanwhile, properties like Palazzo Riario  in Viterbo’s historic center—with its sixteenth-century frescoes—invite guests to experience the City of the Popes from within its medieval walls. THE FUTURE IS ROOTED IN TRADITION The growth of this sector reflects a shift in international travel preferences, increasingly oriented toward authentic and personalized experiences. Today’s travelers seek more than just a place to sleep—they want to immerse themselves in history, breathe the atmosphere of centuries past, and experience a destination as protagonists. Tuscia’s historic residences perfectly meet this desire, offering not only luxury hospitality but true journeys through time. Here, among fifteenth-century frescoes and formal Italian gardens, medieval towers and noble salons, the past becomes present, and hospitality becomes an art form. With its extraordinary architectural heritage, Tuscia firmly establishes itself as one of Italy’s most captivating destinations for quality tourism, where every stay becomes a unique experience woven from history, culture, and timeless beauty.

🌟 Welcome to the Table in Tuscia Arriving in Viterbo and nearby La Quercia with an empty stomach is a double mistake: first, because hunger here is costly (in the best way!), and second, because this land doesn’t just feed you: it seduces, pampers, and spoils. Among trattorias nestled in medieval alleys and creative restaurants overlooking the hills, Tuscia’s culinary scene is not just alive—it’s explosive. Here, tradition isn’t a museum piece but an ingredient, and modernity isn’t a whim but a natural extension of taste. 🧵 Tradition and Innovation: The Double Soul of Viterbese Cuisine You eat well in Viterbo. Period. But the magic lies in the variety: you can find a peasant soup like acquacotta next to a gourmet dish of tartare and pumpkin cream. Restaurants like Essenza , Il Giardino del Papero , LAB Restaurant , and Il Cantuccio di Maria treat cuisine as art, while places like Osteria del Vecchio Orologio , Osteria Moderna , and Agriturismo Braciami keep tradition alive, strictly with zero-kilometer ingredients. 📍 The Geography of Taste 🏠 Historic Center of Viterbo : Here you’ll find most of the boldest and most refined offerings. Restaurants like Le Onde and Essenza serve incredibly fresh fish and modern pairings in elegant settings. 🏛️ Nearby Neighborhoods and Villages : In peaceful La Quercia, standouts include Al Solito Posto , located in a historic home, and Bistrot La Quercia , where Italian cuisine meets French Nouvelle Cuisine. 🌾 Viterbo's Countryside : The experience becomes rural and hands-on at places like Agriturismo Braciami , where meat comes directly from on-site farms and hands literally get in the dough. 🔹 Names to Remember (And Return To) Here’s a taste of the stars, with the promise that each will have its own dedicated feature article: 🌺 Essenza : seafood, elegance, and culinary research. 🌊 Le Onde : lake fish and divine tartare. 🏡 Il Giardino del Papero : taste and poetry in a medieval heart. ⏰ Osteria del Vecchio Orologio : queen of zero-kilometer cooking. 🍳 Osteria Moderna : tradition with a crisp white apron. 🌱 Il Cantuccio di Maria : Italian cuisine with gourmet flair. 🍷 LAB Restaurant & Drink : tapas, soft lighting, and creativity. 🍔 L'Altro Gusto : robust meats and delicate seafood. 🍕 O' Sarracino : pizza and seafood like in Naples. 🏨 Al Solito Posto and 🌟 Bistrot La Quercia : La Quercia with a touch of foie gras. 🍾 Pizza da Luca : when creativity shows up at your doorstep. 🌿 Local Specialties Tuscia’s cuisine is defined by bold flavors and dishes rooted in the peasant tradition: 🍝 Lombrichelli : hand-rolled pasta served with rich sauces. 🥝 Maccaroni di Canepina : also known as "fieno" (hay), thin and delicate. 🫕 Acquacotta : the herder’s soup, still warming hearts today. 🥩 Local Meats : lamb, rabbit, wild boar, and tripe, slow-cooked with care. 🌺 Lake Fish : gems like whitefish and perch, best served fresh. 📚 Zero-Kilometer and Culinary Identity What truly sets Viterbo's food scene apart is its direct connection to the land. Choosing local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. Local producers are the true protagonists of the culinary scene, and every dish tells a story made of fields, lakes, and age-old traditions. 📍 In Conclusion: Eating in Viterbo is Living Better Viterbo and La Quercia offer more than just meals. They offer experiences, stories, and future memories. Whether you love rustic tables or gourmet adventures, you’ll always find a place that makes you feel part of a sensory story. Keep following us on Viterbolandia , because every restaurant that wants to be told—we'll tell. With style, with taste, and with the right kind of hunger.