Tuscania
01017 Tuscania (VT) mobiletext
Tuscania's origins are very ancient, dating back in fact to the Bronze Age. The town enjoys a privileged location a short distance from Viterbo, Lake Bolsena and the sea.
Scattered throughout the city are numerous Etruscan sarcophagi made of terracotta or stone, which is why Tuscania is also known as the City of Etruscan Sarcophagi.
The charming medieval old town is enclosed by walls with swallow-tailed Ghibelline battlements, and offers and breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside, much of it protected as a nature reserve.
Among the beauties of this open-air museum are the Lavello Tower Park with its amphitheater, where you can stroll and relax while enjoying the fabulous view of the surrounding valley and St. Peter's Hill.
Also highly recommended is the short walk to St. Peter's Basilica, which stands atop the hill of the same name, flanked by two tall watchtowers, and decorated with a splendid white rose window above the central portal. Inside, absolutely not to be missed are the sarcophagi, beautiful floors and crypt.
The jewel in the crown of this destination are the many Etruscan necropolis located in the surrounding countryside, where important tombs such as the famous Tomb of the Queen, with its peculiar labyrinth of tunnels, are found.
At the beginning of July, Tuscania is tinged with purple thanks to the nearby lavender fields that provide wonderful views. The town celebrates this event with the highly anticipated Lavender Festival, flooding the streets with the scents of this beloved flower.
Like many towns in Tuscia, Tuscania is also rich in typical products: prominent are extra virgin olive oil, wine and mushrooms, especially porcini, and aged cheeses, mainly pecorino.
