Viterbo is a medieval gem just one hour north of Rome near Lago di Bolsena.
It was known as the papal headquarters for two decades in the 13th century and was the venue for the longest papal election (or congress) in the history of the Catholic Church during this period, lasting nearly three years. The city is also known for its thermal springs that have been celebrated for centuries. Throw some fabulous traditional restaurants into the mix and you’ve got the perfect weekend getaway from Rome.
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1. Palazzo dei Papi
In Viterbo’s main piazza you’ll notice a beautiful ornamental loggia, an architectural element supported by a series of columns or arches that made an appearance in all Italian municipalities during the Middle Ages. Featured in public squares and civic buildings, they were a symbol of justice and government.
The loggia in Viterbo belongs to the Papal Palace, the city’s most noteworthy site for its historical importance. Viterbo functioned as the papal seat from 1257 to 1281, nearly a quarter-century, during which the Catholic Church experienced its longest conclave ever.
The death of Pope Clement IV in 1268 sparked political infighting amongst cardinals who did not elect the subsequent pope, Gregory X, until 1271; during the last year of the deliberations, the cardinals are said to have been closed within the Papal Palace con chiave (with key) lending the name to the conclave process.
2. Duomo di Viterbo
A focal point of all Italian towns and cities is its Duomo or cathedral, so don’t miss the imposing Romanesque Duomo di Viterbo in Piazza di San Lorenzo. Said to have been built on the site of an ancient Etruscan temple dedicated to Hercules, the church was considered an extension of the Papal Palace during the Middle Ages and both overlook the town below.
It is sparsely decorated inside and outside but has a large rose window on its facade and is the resting place of two 13th-century popes.
3. Take A Dip In Hot Springs
Viterbo and its surrounding environs are well-known for their thermal springs which have been used since Etruscan times and are touted as having healing properties. The Bath of the Popes, Regal Terme dei Papi (Bath of the Popes) is the most famous bathroom structure near the city and has both an indoor and an outdoor pool.
If you’re more adventurous, explore the natural springs dotted throughout the countryside for a more rural experience. Bulicame and Bagnaccio are two hidden gems that you should definitely find.
4. Wander The Medieval Alleys
You should spend some time wandering around the city and taking in its unique architecture: Viterbo is a walled, stone-built city with plenty of quaint piazzas and picturesque corners.
You won’t be able to miss its ubiquitous proffer, external staircases that were a feature of medieval houses in the city and unique to Viterbo. Swing by to see the Piazza Della Rocca fountain in the center of town, built between the 12th and 16th centuries.
5. Il Richiastro
Il Richiastro is located in a small alley and serves delicious comfort food in a cozy setting, combining country cuisine with modern art on the wall.
The menu features creative dishes such as its signature soups – Ceci e castagne (chickpeas and chestnuts) and lenticchie e Funghi (lentils and mushrooms) – and its famous bruschetta: thick slices of toasted bread with a number of different sauces using local ingredients from Viterbo.
Along with a series of first courses, there are delicious moments like meatballs with pinenuts and raisins on a prince's appetizer. The restaurant is so popular that it can afford to be only open on weekends so make sure to plan ahead and book your table Friday – Sunday.
6. I Giardini Di Ararat
You’ll only be able to get to I Giardini di Ararat by car but if you’re driving around hunting for hot springs, you’ll want to make a pit stop at this verdant oasis brimming with warmth and charm.
This Agriturismo, or farmhouse that includes a restaurant and B&B, is an asset in a truly idyllic setting: its lush gardens provide views of the countryside and have an outside area. The sky is vast, perfect for rituals and even has a captivating desire.
Inside, the interior is cozy with a fireplace, the table setting is arranged with plates that don't fit just right, and needless to say the accompanying food is excellent. Making the most of fresh local ingredients, the menu changes seasonally and is inventive while maintaining its traditional roots.
7. Palazzo Farnese
In Caprarola, 20km southeast of Viterbo, the lord's 16th-century castle is a true Renaissance wonder. It has a separate pentagon design and, inside, an inner circular pitch and special column staircase. Visits take in the richly decorated rooms frescoed by some of Italy's finest mannerist artists, and, on weekdays, the beautiful hillside gardens.
8. Il Gargolo Ristorantino
A casual meal on an atmosphere plaza is one of the joys of eating out in Italy, and that's exactly what you get at Il Gargolo. Its al fresco tables, shaded by leafy trees, are a great place to tuck into fine noodles - try tonnarelli (thick square spaghetti) with pecorino, Finance gu (pig's cheeks are cured) off) and black desserts.
9. Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
With its black-and-white bell tower, Viterbo's 12th-century church looms over San Francisco Square, the religious and religious center of the medieval city. Originally built according to a simple Roman design, it took on the appearance of current Gothic architecture in the 14th century and partially rebuilt after World War II.
Inside, look for the Redentore e Santi (1472) of Gerolamo da Cremona and the tomb of Pope Giovanni XXI (r 1276 spell 77). A second pope, Alessandro IV (r 1254 Ném61), was also buried in the church, but the position of his body was a long-standing mystery.
10. Palazzo dei Priori
Viterbo's 15th-century town hall overlooks Piazza del Plebiscito, an elegant Renaissance square that has long been the political and social center of the city. It's not all open to the public, but you can visit a series of impressively decorated halls on the 1st floor whose 16th-century frescoes colorfully depict Viterbo's ancient origins.
During the week, the entrance is at Via Ascenzi 1; on weekends, it's on the Piazza del Plebiscito square.
More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Villeneuve D’Ascq
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