Viterbo Historic Centre
About
Viterbo Historic Centre – the medieval heart of Lazio – invites visitors to step back in time amidst well‑preserved walls, cobbled streets and a treasure trove of Renaissance architecture. The city’s skyline is dominated by the Palazzo dei Papi, the former papal residence, whose Roman columns and unique profferli staircases offer a vivid illustration of medieval urban life. Close by, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo showcases Romanesque and Gothic elements, housing the sarcophagus of Pope John XXI and a masterful 1472 painting by Girolamo da Cremona. Water lovers will discover the Baths of Viterbo – ancient thermal springs that were frequented by popes in the 15th century – a testament to the city’s long‑standing reputation for healing waters. Visitors can also wander through charming piazzas dotted with fountains such as the Fountain of Piazza della Rocca, experience the cultural offerings of the Museo Civico, and enjoy strolling along the historic walls that still mark the city's boundaries.
Highlights
- Palazzo dei Papi
- Cathedral of San Lorenzo
- Baths of Viterbo
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
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At a glance
- Typical visit: about 30 minutes