Tuscania, formerly known as Toscanella, lies in northern Lazio, about twenty kilometres from Tarquinia. The town has a long history - from Etruscan settlement to Roman colony to medieval bishopric. Today, it is one of the best preserved historic towns in the Tuscia region and stands off the main tourist routes.
Basilica di San Pietro and Santa Maria Maggiore
Tuscania is famous for its two exceptional Romanesque churches.
-
The Basilica di San Pietro was built in the 11th century and stands on a hill above the town. It offers a peaceful courtyard, mosaic floors and a crypt with original columns.
-
The Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore is older, with a relief portal and preserved frescoes.
Both churches survived the 1971 earthquake and are symbols of the recovery of Tuscany and the whole Viterbo area.
Torre di Lavello and the city park
One of the most enjoyable places in the city is the Parco Torre di Lavello, a green space situated on the site of a former fortress. The dominant feature of the park is the stone tower of Torre di Lavello, from which you can see the entire valley of the Martha River and the Basilica of San Pietro on the opposite hill.
The park is a popular place for relaxation and for local cultural events, concerts or small markets. In spring and summer there are also a number of gastronomic festivals dedicated to the wine and olive oil of the Tuscia region.
The historic centre and atmosphere of the town
The old town is surrounded by walls with well-preserved gates, such as Porta del Poggio or Porta San Marco. The streets are narrow, the houses made of local stone, the squares small and quiet. Tuscania has retained the character of a normal residential town - without crowds and souvenir shops.
From the ramparts you can see the Martha valley and the agricultural landscape with olive trees and vineyards.
Museums and local culture
The former monastery of Santa Maria del Riposo now houses the Museo Archeologico di Tuscania, which showcases finds from Etruscan tombs in the area. The museum has a clear display of vessels, urns and jewellery, complete with information on Etruscan burial rituals.
The town also has an active cultural life, with open-air theatre performances in the summer and the Tuscania Teatro festival, which brings artists from all over Italy to the town.
Tuscania surroundings
Nearby towns to visit include Tarquinia, Viterbo and Lake Bolsena. The whole area is known by the historical name of Tuscia, which refers to the landscape of the former Etruscan settlement.
Why visit Tuscania
Tuscania offers an authentic view of central Italy. It is not overcrowded with tourists, yet it has exceptional monuments and an interesting history. It is suitable as a stopover on the road between Rome and Tuscany or as a destination for a solo trip.
