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🌅 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

The Procoio Forest and the Sacred Spring A few kilometers north of Viterbo lies a place where nature and ancient history intertwine  in silence: Acquarossa , one of the most important Etruscan archaeological sites in the area, nestled within a landscape of woods, springs, and timeless beauty . 🏛️ An Etruscan City Lost in Time Discovered in the mid-20th century, the site of Acquarossa revealed the remains of an Etruscan settlement from the 7th–6th century BC , complete with houses, public buildings, and a vast necropolis.The city, mysteriously abandoned around 500 BC, offered archaeologists unique insights into pre-Roman urban planning . 📍 Where : just 6 km from Viterbo, near the village of San Giuliano🔎 What to see : Foundations of Etruscan houses Roof decorations and terracotta ornaments (originals are preserved at the National Etruscan Museum of Viterbo) Panoramic views over untouched valleys 🌳 The Procoio Forest: A Sanctuary of Nature Surrounding the archaeological area is the Bosco di Procoio , a protected forest of oak, hornbeam, and Mediterranean scrub.Ideal for light trekking, photography, and meditation , this forest is a haven for local wildlife and a place where the rhythm of nature can still be heard. 🦉 Expect to see : foxes, badgers, wild boar, hawks, and countless birds🧘 Perfect for : slow walkers, families, nature lovers 💧 The Spring of Acquarossa Not far from the ruins, hidden among trees and reeds, flows a natural spring  once believed to be sacred to the Etruscans .Its waters, rich in minerals, were likely used in ritual purification ceremonies  and as a daily resource for the ancient inhabitants. 📖 Local legend : They say the water brings clarity — of thought, of heart, of path.Bring a bottle and let yourself be part of a tradition over 2,500 years old. 🗺️ How to Get There from Viterbo 🚗 By car: take the SP2 towards Grotte Santo Stefano; signs for Acquarossa are found near San Giuliano. Approx. 15-minute drive.🥾 On foot or bike: accessible via marked trails  from the outskirts of Viterbo — perfect for a half-day nature and culture hike. 🌟 Why Visit Acquarossa? To walk where the Etruscans once lived , prayed, and built To breathe nature untouched by tourism To discover a hidden treasure of Tuscia , ideal for slow travelers and seekers of silent wonder 📸 Viterbolandia Tip :Bring a notebook or sketchbook — Acquarossa is the kind of place where inspiration flows like its ancient spring.

Viterbo is a city of stone and mystery — and some of its greatest treasures are not visible at first glance.Behind ancient doors, at the end of silent alleys, or tucked between medieval walls, lie hidden churches  that preserve centuries of devotion, frescoes, legends , and architectural wonders. ⛪ 1. Chiesa di San Silvestro – The Church of the Miracle Tucked away in the Piazza del Gesù , this small Romanesque church dates back to the 11th century and is known as the site of Saint Thomas Becket’s vision  and of one of the oldest Eucharistic miracles in Italy. 📍 Where : Piazza del Gesù🎨 Highlights : bare stone interiors, ancient fresco fragments, mystical silence🕰️ Tip : Visit in the late afternoon for a truly contemplative atmosphere. 🪞 2. Chiesa del Gonfalone – The Painted Jewel A true hidden gem, often overlooked by tourists. Behind its modest façade lies a baroque masterpiece : walls entirely covered in 17th-century frescoes depicting biblical scenes in vibrant, almost cinematic detail. 📍 Where : Via Cardinal La Fontaine🎨 Highlights : Full-wall fresco cycles, sculpted altar, incredible ceiling work🔑 Note : Often closed — check with the local diocese for special openings or guided visits. 🌿 3. Santa Maria della Salute – The Church in the Garden Located just outside the medieval walls, this little-known sanctuary is surrounded by gardens and silence. Built in gratitude for the end of a plague, it has become a place of healing and remembrance . 📍 Where : Via della Palazzina🎨 Highlights : Renaissance frescoes, votive offerings, peaceful setting🌸 Perfect for : quiet reflection and nature lovers 🔥 4. Chiesa di San Giovanni in Zoccoli – Echoes of Gothic Viterbo With its gothic arches and richly decorated altar, this is one of the oldest churches in Viterbo. It hides 14th-century frescoes  and once housed relics of local saints. 📍 Where : Via San Giovanni Decollato🎨 Highlights : Gothic portal, medieval floor tiles, fragments of original frescoes🕯️ Mood : shadowy, powerful, spiritual 👣 5. Chiesa di Santa Maria Nuova – Not So Hidden, But Too Often Ignored This is one of the oldest churches in Viterbo , dating back to the 11th century, but often skipped over. It was a place of public debate and university lectures in the Middle Ages. 📍 Where : Piazza Santa Maria Nuova🎨 Highlights : Romanesque architecture, Cosmatesque floors, ancient ambo🕰️ Time-travel factor : high 💡 Why Explore Viterbo's Hidden Churches? To escape the noise  and discover the spiritual heart  of the city To walk through layers of history  carved in stone and pigment To meet a more intimate side of Viterbo , away from the postcards 🗺️ Viterbolandia Tip :Turn this into a half-day walking itinerary , starting at Piazza del Gesù and ending near Via della Palazzina — ideal for slow travel lovers, urban explorers, and art pilgrims. Want a printable map , a Google Maps version , or an audio-guided tour format ? Just say the word, and I’ll prepare it!