About this experience
I invite you to spend a day away from the noisy bustling streets, surrounded by medieval palaces and temples, to learn about the history of Papal elections and immerse yourself in the preserved atmosphere of antiquity. All this awaits you on a charming tour of Viterbo!
What to Expect
Viterbo is located at the foot of the Cimini Mountains at an altitude of 326 meters above sea level along the Cassia road, 80 km north of Rome, on the lands called Tuscia, once inhabited by the Etruscans who left traces of their presence here, contributing to the culture and knowledge of humanity for over 25 centuries.
For many centuries, Viterbo has been known as the Papal City, "Città dei Papi", in memory of the period when the Papal throne was moved here from Rome. It was in Viterbo that the gathering of cardinals to elect a new Pope came to be called a "conclave". You will hear the story of that distant historical event, the tragedy that occurred in March 1271, and see the Papal Palace where the church fathers were locked in.
We will explore the architectural structures: aristocratic palaces, temples, towers, squares, city gates, and numerous fountains. Our walk will take us through the well-preserved medieval district of San Pellegrino, through which pilgrims made their arduous journey to the walls of Rome. Part of the famous Via Francigena route passes through the historical center of Viterbo even today.
I will tell you about an important festive tradition that has been in existence for over 750 years, dedicated to the patron saint of Viterbo, Saint Rose. You will also be touched by the stories of the lives of other heroines who lived in medieval Viterbo. These include the Beautiful Galiana, who refused to marry a Roman signore; Giulia Farnese - sister of Pope Paul III and favorite of Pope Alexander VI from the Borgia family; and Saint Jacinta Marescotti - daughter of noble parents from the Orsini family.
Visiting Viterbo, you will enjoy the preserved grandeur of antiquity, the reverence for traditions, and legends.
Organizational Details
- On the day of the tour, I will meet you at the Orte train station, a 40-minute drive from Rome's Termini station. Then we will drive to Viterbo by car. Alternatively, you can arrive at the Viterbo train station from Rome's Ostiense, Trastevere, Valle Aurelia, or San Pietro stations. The ticket cost is from 5.10 euros/person one way.
- For guests staying at spa resorts and hotels in Viterbo, I can help organize transportation from Rome's Fiumicino airport to Viterbo (one way or round trip).
- Please inform me in advance if you wish to have a snack, as there may not be available seats for spontaneous visits.
Photos from reviews
Elena
September 8, 2022
We had a great time in the company of Svetlana, saw the beauties of Viterbo and learned about its history, as well as had the opportunity to observe the preparations for the local religious holiday. Even a little rain couldn't spoil the pleasure of the trip :)
Юлия
August 9, 2020
Svetlana is an excellent guide. She tells about the city that she knows very well, with enthusiasm and love. Time flew by unnoticed and we, full of new knowledge and impressions (despite having been to Viterbo many times before our tour), discussed interesting details from the city's history, its le...
Show more
Евгения
March 9, 2020
Svetlana and Viterbo are delightful! Despite the rainy and cool weather, we experienced incredible emotions and impressions! Svetlana is an amazing guide - incredibly friendly, wonderfully erudite, and a very engaging storyteller! She met us right next to the apartments we rented in the old town, th...
Show more
