One sunny afternoon this week, I decided to take a trip up to Viterbo. About 50 minutes from Bracciano by train, Viterbo is a beautiful medieval city nestled in the Lazio countryside. With beautiful buildings, imposing squares, winding streets and a tonne of history, Viterbo is a true treat for visitors and locals alike. I had wanted to visit Viterbo for years, but just like Bracciano, I had never made it to the northern outskirts/ outer reaches of Rome. I’ve got to say, it was worth the wait.
Viterbo is stacked with medieval buildings, including the impressive Palazzo dei Papi, a former papal residence which dates back to the 13th century. I took the time to visit some of the many churches in the city but have to admit that I need to go back and visit the Palazzo dei Priori, known for its frescoes and intricate architecture.
Not only is it a historical city, it also has a young, creative population, thanks in part to its university. The city has very much an easy-going vibe and on a week day I was pretty much free to wander at my leisure without hoards of tourists cramping my style!
I stopped off for lunch and had a delicious spaghetti, mussels and pecorino followed by an extremely boozy Rum Babà. Maybe there are advantages to not driving here in Italy. Ha ha!
Have you ever visited Viterbo? Let me know below!