Viterbo and surroundings
Pettinara Suites lies within the medieval walls: palaces, museums and squares are all within walking distance. Half an hour by car brings you to Renaissance gardens, hilltop villages and enchanted woods.
In town
The symbol of Viterbo. In the 13th century the popes lived here, and the Conclave Hall hosted the longest papal election in history: 1,006 days, from 1268 to 1271. Don’t miss the Loggia of the Blessings, light and open-worked, looking out over the valley.
Visits are run by the Colle del Duomo Museum.
In the convent of Santa Maria della Verità, beside the city walls. You enter through a Gothic cloister lined with Etruscan sarcophagi; inside are the sarcophagus of the fair Galiana, medieval painting and sculpture, and historic designs for the Macchina di Santa Rosa.
A 14th-century fortress, with a courtyard and fountain commissioned by Pope Julius II, telling the story of everyday Etruscan life: reconstructed houses from Acquarossa and San Giovenale, finds from the rock-cut necropolises and the rich grave goods of the Chariot Tomb.
Day trips
One of the finest Italian Renaissance gardens: three terraces, monumental fountains and water features laid out between 1568 and 1578 for Cardinal Gambara. It is the most visited garden in Tuscia.
Six hectares run by the University of Tuscia, next to the historic Bulicame hot spring mentioned by Dante in the Inferno. Plants arranged by habitat and origin: a quiet walk just outside town.
Vignola’s masterpiece: a pentagonal fortress turned princely residence, with a circular courtyard, a grand spiral staircase and some of the finest Mannerist frescoes. Behind it lie the secret gardens and a summer lodge in the woods.
The Sacred Wood created in the 16th century by Prince Pier Francesco Orsini: dragons, ogres, elephants, sphinxes and a leaning house carved into the rock among the trees. Salvador Dalí was enchanted by it. Great with children, too.
“The dying town”: a village of Etruscan origin perched on a spur of tufa, reached only on foot across a long bridge over the Valle dei Calanchi. Our tip: go early in the morning or at sunset.
Living Viterbo
One of the best-preserved medieval quarters in Italy: stone houses, outdoor staircases and small squares, a short walk from home.
Every 3 September a glowing tower about 30 metres tall is carried through the centre on the shoulders of a hundred porters. UNESCO heritage.
Open-air hot pools in the Bulicame area, free of charge: a warm soak even in winter.
Planning your stay
Opening hours and tickets change with the seasons: just ask us and we’ll help you plan your days.