The tour takes place over a day and leads to the discovery of the treasures of Viterbo, the City of the Popes and the quiet charm of Civita di Bagnoregio.
It is possible to extend the program for 1 day, staying overnight at one of the hotels in the area selected by us.
The guided tour of Viterbo goes through Piazza del Plebiscito with its Palazzo dei Priori, Piazza del Gesù where the church of San Silvestro stands, Piazza San Lorenzo with the famous Popes’ Palace and the Cathedral , in the heart of the medieval quarter of San Pellegrino and Pianoscarano . From Piazza della Morte then you go on a fascinating tour of the Underground City, which will take you on a journey of nearly 2500 years into history . The underground city is made up of a network of tunnels that extend below the historic center and lead beyond the city walls . The path is completely carved into the tuff stone , and the initial excavation could even date back to the Etruscans who used it as hydraulic system. During the medieval times the underground tunnels became a real labyrinth of secret passages that were used to allow communication between nerve centers and strategic structures of Viterbo , ensuring the escape route to the citizens in case of danger or siege. During the Second World War they were used as air raid shelters during the bombing.
After stopping for lunch at a nearby farm ( where you can taste the local cuisine ), we set off for the town of Civita di Bagnoregio , defined as ” the dying city “. It stands on a tuffaceous hill , isolated, accessible only on foot through a pedestrian bridge made of reinforced concrete , built for the benefit of the few remaining residents and tourists who visit from all over the world. Civita was founded 2500 years ago by the Etruscans. Built on one of the oldest roads of Italy, it is between the Tiber ( back then one of the great waterways of Central Italy ) and Lake Bolsena. During a short walk into the village , you will visit the interesting Geological Museum of Landslides . After the visit return to your destination .
Optional Extension: The 2nd day will include a visit to the amazing BOMARZO Park of the monsters and Villa Lante in BAGNAIA, two of the most famous Italian gardens of the sixteenth century.