Viterbo

Viterbo is the capital of the province of Viterbo in northern Lazio, about 80 kilometres north of Rome. Known as the "City of the Popes", it retains a well-preserved medieval centre of narrow lanes, towers, stone houses and city walls, giving the town a compact, historic atmosphere.

The city's papal past is most visible around Piazza San Lorenzo, where the 13th-century Palazzo dei Papi and its Gothic loggia stand beside the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. The neighbouring San Pellegrino quarter is one of Italy's best-preserved medieval districts, known for its external staircases called profferli, arched passages and stone facades.

Central Viterbo centres on Piazza del Plebiscito and the Palazzo dei Priori, while the Rocca Albornoz houses the National Etruscan Museum. The sanctuary of Santa Rosa and the annual Macchina di Santa Rosa procession on 3 September, recognized by UNESCO, are among the city's most distinctive traditions.

Viterbo is also known for its thermal waters, including the Terme dei Papi spa complex, and for the University of Tuscia, which gives the town a lively student presence. Nearby attractions include Lake Bolsena, Bomarzo's Monster Park and Etruscan archaeological sites across the Tuscia area.

For leisure travellers, Viterbo offers history, wellness and a calm base for exploring northern Lazio, while business visitors and conference guests benefit from its university, thermal and event facilities and easy connections to Rome.