Tuscania, also known as the pearl of Etruria: a place rich in history, breathtaking views, romantic glimpses, a magical place to visit. Its location is privileged, a few kilometres from the city of Viterbo and halfway between Lake Bolsena and the Tyrrhenian coast. Its medieval historical centre offers jewels to be seen in all their splendour. We recommend the medieval churches, the Etruscan necropolis and the Archaeological Museum, which make Tuscania known as the “city of Etruscan sarcophagi”, and the Tor di Lavello park, a natural terrace with a panoramic view.
Medieval Churches
The Church of San Pietro, dating from around a thousand years ago, overlooks a green space enclosed by the Canons’ Palace and three defence towers. On the façade, one can admire the finely decorated rose window, formed by three concentric circles referring to the Holy Trinity. Unfortunately, most of the paintings and frescoes inside have been lost. At the foot of St Peter’s Hill stands the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, consecrated in the 13th century. Here you can see an overlap of styles that make it difficult to establish its date.
The Etruscan Necropolis and the Archaeological Museum
Around Colle San Pietro, there are five Etruscan necropolises in which all types of tombs and an infinite number of sarcophagi can be found. This is why Tuscania is known throughout the world as the city of Etruscan sarcophagi. You can admire an interesting collection of them at the National Etruscan Museum at the end of the walk, outside the walls. Still in the process of being set up, it is a fascinating place that preserves extraordinary evidence of Etruscan history.
Tor di Lavello Park
In the heart of the charming old town, at the foot of the Torre del Lavello, is Tor di Lavello Park, a natural terrace overlooking the valley below the walls. From here, the two medieval churches of Tuscany and the typically Maremma landscape can be seen in all their magnificence. Inside the park there is a sundial and a small amphitheatre, a meeting place for the people of Tuscany all year round, but especially during the summer.