Vitorchiano is a small town in the province of Viterbo. It is located along the superstrada that connects the cities of Orte and Viterbo itself.
Vitorchiano travel guide and tourist information
History
Vitorchiano has less than 5 thousand inhabitants and is situated on a plateau between cliffs.
Its origins are ancient, In Etruscan and Roman times it was a flourishing city and was often attacked by the Barbarians.
Unlike other centers in the area, it was built up again right after having been attacked and in the year 757 the King of the Lumbards, Desiderio, had a fortress constructed around the city.
In later years Vitorchiano often asked for protection from Rome against the various wealthy families of Viterbo, and since that period enjoys an unbreakable bond with the Italian capital.
Tourist Attractions
The Chiesa della SS. Trinità was built in the 14th century and houses works by a.o. Valentino Pica (“The Annunciation”, 1514) and Domenico Corvi (“The Death of Saint Joseph”). A wooden urn with golden decorations holds the ashes of Sant’Amanzio, patron saint of the city.
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta al Cielo was constructed in the 13th century, although its bell tower was constructed two centuries later. Its interior is decoarated with rather faded frescoes.
Of the medieval gates that used to permit access into the city, only two are still standing. Especially the Porta della Madonna della Neve, graced with inscriptions and coats-of-arms, is worth seeing. The city walls and its towers date back t the 13th century.
Festivals
- The Sagra del Cavatello is held every year during the first week of August. The cavatello is a kind of pasta, that in Vitorchiano is served with a sauce of garlic, tomato and fennel.
- The Poggiata: An afternoon walk along sites in the surrounding countryside that are dedicated to San Michele Arcangelo.
Useful information
The ZIP code is 01030 and the area code is 0761. Vitorchiano’s tourist office is located at Piazza Roma (Tel.: +39 0761370756).
By car/public transportation
By Car/Public Transportation
From Viterbo by car: Take the SS675 or the SP22.
From Rome by car: Take the A1 northbound and turn onto the SS675 at Orte.
Public transportation from Viterbo: There are Cotral buses to Vitorchiano.
Public transportation from Rome: Take a train to Viterbo and then the Cotral bus.
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