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Viterbo
Viterbo
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View from space of Viterbo and Rome

Key Information

Viterbo (Italian: [viˈtɛrbo] ; Viterbese: Veterbe; Medieval Latin: Viterbium) is a city and comune (municipality) in the Lazio region of Italy, the capital of the province of Viterbo.

It conquered and absorbed the neighboring town of Ferento (see Ferentium) in its early history. It is approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles) north of GRA (Rome) on the Via Cassia, and it is surrounded by the Monti Cimini and Monti Volsini. The historic center is surrounded by the medieval walls of Viterbo, which are still mainly intact, built during the 11th and 12th centuries. Entrance to the walled center of the city is through ancient gates.

Apart from agriculture, Viterbo's main resources are pottery, peperino stone, and wood. The town is home to the Italian gold reserves, an important Academy of Fine Arts, the University of Tuscia, and the Italian Army's Aviation Command headquarters and training centre. It is located in a wide thermal area, attracting many tourists from all over central Italy.

History

[edit]

The first report of the new city dates to the eighth century AD, when it is identified as Castrum Viterbii. It was fortified in 773 by the Lombard King Desiderius in his vain attempt to conquer Rome. When the popes switched to the Frankish support, Viterbo became part of the Papal States. Still, this status was to be highly contested by the emperors in the following centuries, until 1095 when it was known as a free comune (municipality).

Etruscan warrior, found near Viterbo, dated circa 500 BC

In a period in which the popes had difficulties asserting their authority over Rome, Viterbo became their favourite residence, beginning with Pope Eugene III (1145–1146) who was besieged in vain in the city walls. In 1164, Frederick Barbarossa made Viterbo the seat of his antipope Paschal III. Three years later, he called it a "city" and used its militias against Rome. In 1172, Viterbo started its expansion, destroying the old city of Ferento and conquering other lands. In this age it was a rich and prosperous comune, one of the most important of Central Italy, with a population of almost 60,000.

In 1207, Pope Innocent III held a council in the cathedral, but the city was later excommunicated as the favourite seat of the heretical Patarines and even defeated by the Romans. In 1210, however, Viterbo managed to defeat Emperor Otto IV and was again at war against Rome.

In the thirteenth century it was ruled alternately by the tyrants of the Gatti and Di Vico families. Frederick II drew Viterbo to the Ghibelline side in 1240, but when the citizens expelled his turbulent German troops in 1243 he returned and besieged the city, but in vain. From that point Viterbo was always a loyal Guelph city. Between 1257 and 1261 it was the seat of Pope Alexander IV, who also died there. His successor Urban IV was elected in Viterbo.

In 1266–1268, Clement IV chose Viterbo as the base of his ruthless fight against the Hohenstaufen. Here, from the loggia of the Papal Palace, he excommunicated the army of Conradin of Swabia which was passing on the Via Cassia, with the prophetical motto of the "lamb who is going to the sacrifice". Other popes elected in Viterbo were Gregory X (1271) and John XXI (1276) (who died in the papal palace when the ceiling of the recently built library collapsed on him while he slept), Nicholas III and the French Martin IV. The Viterbese, who did not agree with the election of a foreigner directed by the King of Naples, Charles I of Anjou, invaded the cathedral where the conclave was held, arresting two of the cardinals. They were subsequently excommunicated, and the popes avoided Viterbo for 86 years.

Without the popes, the city fell into the hands of the Di Vicos. In the fourteenth century, Giovanni di Vico had created a seignory extending to Civitavecchia, Tarquinia, Bolsena, Orvieto, Todi, Narni and Amelia. His dominion was crushed by Cardinal Gil de Albornoz in 1354, sent by the Avignonese popes to recover the Papal States, who built the castle. In 1375, the city gave its keys to Francesco Di Vico, son of the previous tyrant, but thirteen years later the people killed him and assigned the city first to Pope Urban VI, and then to Giovanni di Sciarra di Vico, Francesco's cousin. But Pope Boniface IX's troops drove him away in 1396 and established a firm papal suzerainty over the city. The last Di Vico to hold power in Viterbo was Giacomo, who was defeated in 1431.

Thenceforth Viterbo became a city of secondary importance, following the vicissitudes of the Papal States. In the 16th century it was the birthplace of Latino Latini. It became part of Italy in 1871.

In 1927 Viterbo was made a provincial capital.

During World War II Viterbo was occupied by the Wehrmacht after the Armistice of Cassibile and heavily bombed by the Allies, suffering over twenty raids between July 1943 and June 1944; this left a third of the city destroyed or badly damaged, and caused heavy damage to cultural heritage and 1,017 civilian deaths.[3][4][5] On 20 March 2024, an unexploded MK IV Bomb was found in a construction site causing an evacuation of more than 30,000 people in a range of 1400m until the bomb could be disposed of.[6]

Geography

[edit]

Climate

[edit]

Viterbo experiences a hot-summer mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification: Csa). The annual average temperature is 14.5 °C (58.1 °F), the hottest month in August is 24.4 °C (75.9 °F), and the coldest month is 6.4 °C (43.5 °F) in January. The annual precipitation is 869.93 millimetres (34.25 in), of which November is the wettest with 127.09 millimetres (5.00 in), while July is the driest with only 30.64 millimetres (1.21 in).

Climate data for Viterbo, elevation: 300 m or 980 ft, 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1955–present
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 19.3
(66.7)
22.3
(72.1)
26.5
(79.7)
27.9
(82.2)
34.3
(93.7)
40.3
(104.5)
40.1
(104.2)
40.1
(104.2)
36.8
(98.2)
29.7
(85.5)
25.3
(77.5)
19.9
(67.8)
40.3
(104.5)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 10.6
(51.1)
11.9
(53.4)
14.7
(58.5)
17.9
(64.2)
22.4
(72.3)
27.4
(81.3)
31.2
(88.2)
31.3
(88.3)
26.0
(78.8)
20.7
(69.3)
15.0
(59.0)
11.2
(52.2)
20.0
(68.0)
Daily mean °C (°F) 6.4
(43.5)
7.1
(44.8)
9.4
(48.9)
12.3
(54.1)
16.3
(61.3)
20.8
(69.4)
24.0
(75.2)
24.4
(75.9)
20.1
(68.2)
15.6
(60.1)
10.7
(51.3)
7.1
(44.8)
14.5
(58.1)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 2.2
(36.0)
2.2
(36.0)
4.0
(39.2)
6.7
(44.1)
10.2
(50.4)
14.2
(57.6)
16.9
(62.4)
17.5
(63.5)
14.3
(57.7)
10.5
(50.9)
6.3
(43.3)
3.1
(37.6)
9.0
(48.2)
Record low °C (°F) −12.7
(9.1)
−10.2
(13.6)
−9.2
(15.4)
−6.2
(20.8)
−2.2
(28.0)
4.2
(39.6)
6.4
(43.5)
8.4
(47.1)
3.1
(37.6)
−1.1
(30.0)
−11.2
(11.8)
−11.8
(10.8)
−12.7
(9.1)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 53.1
(2.09)
88.6
(3.49)
60.0
(2.36)
65.4
(2.57)
68.0
(2.68)
46.2
(1.82)
30.6
(1.20)
42.3
(1.67)
114.7
(4.52)
89.7
(3.53)
127.1
(5.00)
84.2
(3.31)
869.9
(34.25)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm) 6.5 6.4 6.5 7.5 6.9 4.3 2.7 2.9 5.9 7.4 9.2 8.0 74.1
Average relative humidity (%) 74.5 70.6 69.6 70.1 69.2 66.1 62.5 62.8 67.8 73.3 77.2 76.1 70.0
Average dew point °C (°F) 1.0
(33.8)
0.8
(33.4)
2.8
(37.0)
5.4
(41.7)
9.5
(49.1)
12.3
(54.1)
14.0
(57.2)
14.6
(58.3)
12.2
(54.0)
9.7
(49.5)
5.5
(41.9)
2.3
(36.1)
7.5
(45.5)
Mean monthly sunshine hours 156.6 174.4 205.2 219.0 278.4 299.7 338.2 317.1 239.4 191.9 150.0 145.7 2,715.6
Source 1: Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale (temperature)[7]
Source 2: NOAA (dew point 1981–2010)[8][9] Source 3: Temperature estreme in Toscana (extremes)[10]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
YearPop.±%
1861-—    
187127,232—    
188126,833−1.5%
190128,660+6.8%
191130,801+7.5%
192133,347+8.3%
193135,969+7.9%
193637,130+3.2%
YearPop.±%
195144,132+18.9%
196150,047+13.4%
197154,461+8.8%
198157,632+5.8%
199158,380+1.3%
200159,308+1.6%
201163,209+6.6%
202165,931+4.3%
Source: ISTAT

Sights

[edit]
The Palace of the Popes – In the background the bell-tower of the cathedral
Fontana di Piazza della Rocca (12th–16th-century) in the center of Old Town Viterbo
St. Lawrence Cathedral and bell-tower
The Fontana Grande ("Grand Fountain") in the eponymous square

Viterbo's historic center is one of the best preserved medieval towns of central Italy. Many of the older buildings (particularly churches) are built on top of ancient ruins, recognizable by their large stones, 50 centimeters to a side. Viterbo is unique in Italy for its concentration of 'profferli', external staircases that were a frequent feature of medieval houses. The San Pellegrino quarter has an abundance of them, reflecting an architectural style that is unique to the town and the nearby region.[11]

Baths of Viterbo

[edit]

In the valley of the Arcione River just to the west of Viterbo are a number of springs celebrated for the healing qualities of their waters, and in use since Etruscan and Roman days.[12] In fact, the imposing ruins of a great Roman bath are still to be seen and were drawn in plan and perspective by Renaissance artists including Giuliano da Sangallo, Michelangelo, and Vasari.[13] One of the most famous were the thermal springs known as the "Bullicame", or bubbling place, whose reputation had even reached the ears of the exiled poet Dante Alighieri. Canto 14 (lines 79–81) of Dante's Inferno describes how:

In silence we had reached a place where flowed
a slender watercourse out of the wood—a stream
whose redness makes me shudder still.
As from the Bullicame pours a brook whose
waters are then shared by prostitutes
, so did this
stream run down across the sand.[14]

Bagno del Papa in Viterbo
"The Awakening" by Seward Johnson in Viterbo

Not far from the Bullicame, whose waters were apparently always taken in the open, is the Terme dei Papi ("Bath of the Popes"). Almost totally concealed within the structure of a modern luxury spa hotel are the remains of a Renaissance bath palace that attracted the attention of two popes.[15] Actually, the origins of this bathing establishment date to the Middle Ages when it was known as the Bagno della Crociata (named either after a Crusader who supposedly discovered the spring or from a corruption of the Italian word for crutch). Early 15th-century documents describe a bath building that covered three distinct thermal springs all under one roof.[16]

This bath house was transformed circa 1454 by the Pope Nicholas V, who commissioned a bath palace (according to Nicholas's biographer, Giannozzo Manetti) "with such magnificence and with such expense that it was not only deemed suitable for a stay and salutary for the sick but seemed an edifice destined to have rooms fit for princes and for living regally".[16] A more precise description of Pope Nicholas' palace was described by the Viterbese chronicler Niccola della Tuccia in the 1470s, who stated the new Bagno del Papa as a battlemented building, resembling a fortress, about 30 x 20 m in size with high towers at the corners of its southern façade. Located outside Viterbo, the spa would have been an easy target for assaults had the building not assumed a militant character, which also affirmed papal authority. Aside from the regal apartments described by Manedtti there were vaulted chambers at the lowest level to accommodate the patrons of the several thermal springs.[16]

Manetti and Vasari both named the Florentine architect and sculptor Bernardo Rossellino as the architect of the project in Viterbo.[17] There is, however, no documentation or architectural evidence to connect Rossellino directly with the construction of the Bagno del Papa. To the contrary, Vatican payment records from 1454, preserved in the state archives in Rome, identify a stonemason from Lombardy, named Stefano di Beltrame, as the builder who "had done or was doing in the house ordered by the pope at the bagni della Grotta and Crociata of Viterbo."[18]

Construction at the Bagno del Papa was continued on through the reigns of several popes after Nicholas V. The Vatican accounts mention of payments "for building done at the bath palace of Viterbo" during the reigns of Calixtus III, Paul II, and Sixtus IV. There also is evidence Pope Pius II was responsible for the addition of a western wing to the building.[19]

Travelers' descriptions, etched views, and local guidebooks chronicle the fate of the Renaissance Bagno del Papa over the years and through several rebuildings resulting in a general assumption that most of the original 15th-century structure had vanished. A guide to Viterbo from 1911 does note that some remnants were still to be detected in basement piers and vaults. In operation as a thermal hospital in 1927, the building was blown up by retreating German forces in 1944.[20]

Despite all the travails, much of the original Bagno del Papa built by Popes Nicholas V and Pius II survives, including the corner towers and the vaulted chambers where Renaissance patrons once bathed.[21]

Military

[edit]

Viterbo became a centre of military aviation due to its proximity to Rome, especially after the opening of the Air Force base (now the Rome Viterbo Airport but still used for military purposes) during the 1930s. The Army Aviation Command headquarters and training school (Italian: Scuola marescialli dell'Aeronautica Militare) are both located there.

The Army's NCO training establishment (Italian: Scuola sottufficiali dell'Esercito Italiano) is also located in the city.

Government

[edit]

Notable people

[edit]
Born in Viterbo
Lived in Viterbo
Died in Viterbo

Religion

[edit]

Patron saints

[edit]
Tomb with the body of Saint Hyacintha Mariscotti exposed for public veneration in Viterbo, Italy

Saint Rose is the patron saint of Viterbo. The legend of Santa Rosa is that she helped to eradicate those few who supported the emperors instead of the popes, around 1250. Saint Lawrence is the male patron saint. Saint Hyacintha Mariscotti is the co-patroness of the city.

Macchina di Santa Rosa

[edit]

The transport of the Macchina di Santa Rosa takes place every year, on 3 September, at 9 o'clock in the evening. The Macchina is an artistic illuminated bell-tower with an imposing height of 30 m. It weighs between 3.5 and 5 tonnes and is made of iron, wood and papier-mâché. At the top of the tower, the statue of the patron saint is enthusiastically acclaimed by the people in the streets of the town centre, where lights are turned off for the occasion. One hundred Viterbesi men (known as the Facchini) carry the Macchina from Porta Romana through each of the major streets of Viterbo to seven churches to be blessed, concluding with a strenuous ascension up to the Piazza di Santa Rosa, its final resting place. Each Macchina's lifespan differs, but contests for a new design are held every few years.

Transportation

[edit]
Porta Fiorentina is one of three train stations serving Viterbo.

The Rome Viterbo Airport was opened in 1936 as part of Viterbo Air Force Base, located 3 kilometres (2 miles) from the town. On 26 November 2007, Italian transport minister Alessandro Bianchi announced that Viterbo had been chosen as the site of the next airport in Lazio to serve Rome.[22] However, in 2013 those plans were abandoned.[23] Viterbo is served by regional trains departing from Station Ostiense, Trastevere, S. Pietro and sometimes at Termini in Rome. Porta Romana is the station serving the old city center.

Education

[edit]

The city is home to the Tuscia University, established in 1979.[24] It is also the city where students of School Year Abroad's Italy program study, their school housed in a 16th-century palazzo on Via Cavour.

Twin towns – sister cities

[edit]

Viterbo is twinned with:

Notes

[edit]

Sources

[edit]
  • Charles R. Mack, "The Bath Palace of Nicholas V at Viterbo", in An Architectural Progress in the Renaissance and the Baroque: Sojourns In and Out of Italy, Papers in Art History VIII, Pennsylvania State University, Vol. I, 1992, 45–63.
  • Charles R. Mack, "The Renaissance Spa: Testing the Architectural Waters", Southeastern College Art Conference Review, XI, 3, 1988, 193–200.
  • Valtieri, Simonetta, "Rinascimento a Viterbo: Bernardo Rossellino", Architettura, croniche e storia, XVII, 1972, 686–94.
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Viterbo is a historic city and in the northern part of the region in , serving as the capital of the and situated approximately 105 kilometers north of in the ancient region of . With a resident population of 66,365 as of January 1, 2025, it is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved , earning it the nickname "City of the Popes" due to its role as a key papal residence during the 13th century. Geographically, Viterbo occupies a hilly area of 406 square kilometers, characterized by volcanic landscapes including the nearby Lake Vico, Monti Cimini, and Lake Bolsena, which contribute to its natural beauty and thermal springs. The city's old town, enclosed by medieval walls, features narrow cobblestone streets in the San Pellegrino quarter and prominent landmarks such as the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the massive Palazzo dei Papi, a former papal palace built in the 13th century. These elements, along with nearby Etruscan sites like the necropolises of , highlight Viterbo's deep historical roots dating back to Etruscan settlements before Roman times. Historically, Viterbo emerged as a significant center in the , serving as a refuge for popes fleeing Roman unrest and hosting the longest papal conclave in 1268–1271, which led to the election of Gregory X. It remained part of the until Italian unification in 1870 and suffered extensive damage during , though postwar reconstruction preserved much of its medieval core. Today, cultural events like the annual Transport of the —a massive wooden structure carried through the streets on September 3—underscore its vibrant heritage, recognized by as an . Economically, Viterbo's is driven by small businesses, , and , with the agricultural sector focusing on wine, , hazelnuts, and other food products, supported by the surrounding 70% use in the province. Industry includes ceramics, peperino stone extraction—a local used in —and , while thrives on the city's historic sites, thermal spas like Terme dei Papi (dating to ancient Roman times), and natural attractions such as the gardens in nearby Bagnaia. The city's strategic location near also bolsters its role in regional trade and services.

Geography

Physical features

Viterbo is situated in the northern part of the region of , approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north-northwest of , or about 105 kilometers by road, within the ancient territory historically associated with . The city occupies a formed by the Pleistocene activity of the Cimini-Vico volcanic complex, at an elevation of about 326 meters above . This plateau, part of the broader Roman Comagmatic Province, features undulating terrain shaped by past lava flows and calderas, contributing to the region's distinctive . To the east, the Cimini Mountains rise as a prominent volcanic range, reaching heights over 1,000 meters at Monte Cimino, while , Europe's largest , lies to the north, spanning 113 square kilometers with depths up to 151 meters. The Marta River valley borders the area to the northwest, draining the lake and carving fertile lowlands. These volcanic soils, rich in and from trachytic and latitic deposits, support intensive , particularly and cultivation, enhancing the local ecosystem's productivity. The urban layout of Viterbo reflects its volcanic origins and historical development, with well-preserved medieval walls—dating to the 12th-14th centuries—encircling the compact historic center, which spans about 1 square kilometer and includes narrow streets and stone buildings. Beyond these walls, the city has expanded into modern suburbs since the mid-20th century, incorporating residential and commercial zones on the surrounding plateau. springs, emerging from the same volcanic system with temperatures ranging from 40°C to 56°C, are a key feature, fed by heated in deep fractured rocks; sites like the Bulicame springs have been utilized since Roman times for and therapeutic purposes. Environmentally, the nearby Monti Cimini area hosts significant , particularly in the ancient beech forests of the Faggeta di Monte Cimino, a covering volcanic slopes with diverse flora including trees up to 50 meters tall and understory species adapted to nutrient-rich soils. Fauna includes mammals like and birds such as the , supported by the protected landscape. The region experiences moderate seismic activity due to its position in the tectonically active Roman volcanic province, near the Vulcano Laziale (Colli Albani) complex about 100 kilometers to the southeast, with historical earthquakes linked to fault systems and residual volcanic stress.

Climate

Viterbo experiences a hot-summer classified as Csa under the Köppen-Geiger system, featuring mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers with moderate seasonality. This classification reflects the region's location in , where summers often exceed 30°C during the day, while winters rarely drop below freezing on average. The annual average temperature stands at 13.9°C, with monthly means ranging from about 5°C in to 23°C in August. Precipitation averages 898 mm yearly, concentrated primarily in autumn months like (94 mm) and (107 mm), when stormy weather is common; summers are notably drier, with July receiving just 28 mm. These patterns result from the moderating influence of the nearby , which tempers extremes, and the to the east, which promote orographic rainfall during frontal passages. Extreme temperatures highlight the climate's variability: the record high reached 40°C on multiple occasions, including late June 2022, late July 2005, and early August 2017, while winter lows can dip to around -6°C, though rarer severe cold snaps occur under continental air flows. Recent trends indicate warming due to , with Viterbo facing intensified heatwaves; in July , the city was placed on red alert as temperatures approached 40°C amid a broader Mediterranean event made more likely by human-induced warming. Similarly, , including areas near Viterbo, saw prolonged heat in summer 2025, with peaks up to 42°C and increased frequency of such events compared to pre-industrial baselines. This warming, consistent with regional observations like Rome's average of 19.7°C—2.5°C above the 1991–2020 norm—supports Viterbo's thermal bath by maintaining consistently warm conditions.

History

Ancient to medieval periods

Viterbo's origins trace back to Etruscan settlements in the region during the BCE, with nearby Ferento emerging as a key outpost dependent on the powerful city of (modern Bolsena), featuring extensive necropolises characterized by rock-cut and tumuli up to 120 feet deep. Archaeological evidence from the cliffs surrounding Viterbo includes Etruscan sepulchral caves containing urns, vases, and artifacts, indicating continuous habitation and practices from this period. These sites, including the ruins at Ferento with their polygonal pavements and theater facades, underscore the area's role in Etruscan trade and religious networks, particularly linked to cults like that of the goddess Nurtia. By the 3rd century BCE, the Viterbo region was integrated into the expanding following military campaigns against Etruscan city-states, notably the Battle of Lake Vadimo in 310 BCE, where Lucius Papirius Cursor defeated a coalition of Etruscan forces from , , and other northern cities near modern Viterbo. The ancient settlement, known as Surrina or Sorrina from Latin inscriptions, developed as a strategic waystation along the , a major Roman road constructed in the 2nd century BCE to connect with and beyond, facilitating military logistics and commerce. Roman infrastructure, such as bridge foundations with rectangular blocks and cliff-side sewers, attests to this era's urbanization, while artifacts like conical cippi and sarcophagi in local museums highlight the blend of Etruscan and Roman cultural elements. In the , Viterbo rose as an independent free commune, established around 1095, amid the fragmentation of Lombard and papal authority in , fostering economic growth through , , and its position on pilgrimage routes. The city aligned with factions against imperial Ghibelline forces, notably defeating Frederick II in 1243 after he besieged it for supporting the papacy, which led to the destruction of his nearby Castel S. Lorenzo. Conflicts with intensified during this period, as Viterbo's militias clashed with Roman senators over territorial control in northern , including rivalries with ; by the mid-13th century, these tensions prompted popes to relocate the to Viterbo for safety from Roman unrest. Viterbo's medieval prominence peaked as a papal seat from 1257 to 1281, hosting five conclaves in the Palazzo dei Papi, including the longest in history from 1268 to 1271, where cardinals elected Gregory X after nearly three years of deadlock; local authorities intervened by locking the electors inside, reducing rations to bread and water, and removing the roof to hasten a decision. This event, along with elections of Urban IV (1261), John XXI (1276)—who died when a palace extension collapsed—and Martin IV (1281), elevated Viterbo's status, though the latter excommunicated the city for barring Roman cardinals. In response to external threats, including Guelph-Ghibelline strife, Viterbo constructed its extensive city walls starting in the late and completing major phases around 1270, enclosing the historic center with towers and gates that remain largely intact.

Early modern to present

During the , Viterbo experienced significant papal influence, particularly in the 15th and 16th centuries, as the Farnese family, originating from Viterbo in the province, rose to prominence through connections to the papacy. The family's ascent began in the late 15th century when , sister of Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, became a mistress of , elevating their status within Roman and Viterbese society. Alessandro Farnese, who became in 1534, further solidified Farnese control over Viterbo and surrounding territories, commissioning architectural projects that symbolized their power and patronage of . A key example of this influence was the construction of in Caprarola, within Viterbo's province, starting in the 1520s under Cardinal Alessandro Farnese and completed in the late . Designed primarily by architect Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola, the pentagonal palace served as a residence and administrative center, blending fortress-like defenses with elegance, including grand frescoed interiors by artists like Taddeo and . This project not only enhanced the Farnese's regional dominance but also contributed to the cultural flourishing of , the historical name for the Viterbo area, through the integration of Mannerist elements in local architecture and gardens. In the , Viterbo's trajectory shifted with the decline of papal authority and the push for Italian unification. As part of the , the city was annexed to the Kingdom of in September 1870 following the Italian army's on September 20, marking the end of temporal papal rule over . This incorporation brought Viterbo under the new national government, but the post-unification era was marked by , exacerbated by the region's agrarian focus, limited investments, and the broader challenges of integrating former papal territories into a centralized state economy. The 20th century brought profound disruption during , when Viterbo was occupied by German forces after Italy's 1943 armistice with the Allies, serving as a strategic hub due to its rail connections. Allied bombings, particularly in 1944 targeting transportation infrastructure, devastated the city, causing over 1,000 civilian deaths, destroying around 600 homes, and severely damaging 300 others, while affecting historic monuments. Post-war reconstruction proceeded swiftly, with Viterbo emerging as one of the first Italian towns to restore much of its urban fabric by the early 1950s, preserving medieval and structures amid modern rebuilding efforts. In 1927, amid fascist-era administrative reforms, Viterbo was officially designated the capital of its namesake province, consolidating its regional administrative role through boundary reorganizations in . In recent decades, Viterbo has addressed lingering wartime legacies and pursued . In May 2024, the discovery of a large unexploded bomb in the city center prompted the evacuation of approximately 36,000 residents, with ordnance disposal experts successfully defusing the device after several hours of operations, highlighting ongoing risks from the conflict. By 2025, the city hosted the "Beauty and the Built Landscape" international congress from June 17 to 19, organized as part of a week-long event focused on principles, emphasizing morphological, aesthetic, and sustainable planning to enhance built environments in historic contexts like Viterbo.

Demographics

As of 2023, the commune of Viterbo had a resident population of 66,188, according to official ISTAT data. The broader recorded approximately 307,686 inhabitants in the same year, reflecting a stable but slowly contracting regional demographic. With the commune spanning 406.23 square kilometers, the stands at about 163 inhabitants per square kilometer. Historically, Viterbo's has shown steady growth over the past century, rising from 28,660 residents in 1901 to a peak of 67,798 in . This expansion was driven by post-World War II recovery and urbanization, though the city experienced temporary setbacks from wartime losses, including bombings and evacuations that contributed to a brief dip in the mid-20th century. Since the late , the trend has reversed slightly, with a decline attributed to an aging and low natural increase, resulting in a net loss of around 1,600 residents between and 2023. Looking ahead, ISTAT projections indicate stabilization of Viterbo's population around 66,000 by 2030, influenced by persistently low rates of 1.00 children per woman in the as of 2024 and ongoing out-migration to nearby for employment opportunities. Recent updates for 2024 and 2025 show minor positive shifts, with the population reaching 66,365 as of January 1, 2025—a 0.3% increase from the prior year—supported by a of about +0.5%, partly linked to sector recovery following the .
YearCommune Population
190128,660
195144,132
199160,324
201767,798
202366,188
This table highlights key census points and illustrates the long-term growth followed by recent stabilization.

Social composition

Viterbo's population is predominantly Italian, with approximately 89% of residents holding Italian citizenship as of recent demographic surveys. The remaining portion consists of foreign residents, who make up about 11% of the city's population, primarily from Eastern European countries such as (the largest group at around 38% of foreigners in the province), , , , and . Smaller communities hail from , including , contributing to a modest multicultural presence that reflects broader migration patterns to . The population is slightly female-majority, with 48.8% males and 51.2% females as of 2023. Religiously, Viterbo is overwhelmingly Roman Catholic, with about 96.7% of the diocesan identifying as such as of , supported by active parishes and a rich ecclesiastical heritage centered on the of Viterbo. Minority faiths include small Protestant communities and other religions brought by immigrants, such as Orthodox Christianity from and from North African groups, though these remain limited in scale. This Catholic majority underscores the city's traditional ties to religious observances, including festivals that reinforce communal bonds. Culturally, residents speak a local known as Viterbese, a variety blending Tuscan and Lazian influences, often used alongside standard Italian in daily life and settings. structures emphasize close-knit units with strong intergenerational support, highlighted by a high proportion of elderly residents—around 25% of the population is over 65—reflecting Italy's aging demographic trends. Increasing multiculturalism is evident through the University of , which attracts about 10% international students, boosting foreign resident numbers to roughly 10% province-wide in 2024 data, fostering greater diversity among younger demographics.

Economy

Primary industries

Viterbo's primary industries are anchored in , which leverages the region's volcanic soils to support high-yield cultivation of key crops. The is a leading producer of , accounting for approximately 30% of Italy's national output, with these orchards occupying about 43% of the local agricultural land. cultivation is also prominent, contributing to extra-virgin production on family-run estates that integrate it with hazelnut farming. thrives in the area, particularly around , where the DOC white wine is made primarily from Procanico (Trebbiano Toscano) grapes grown on volcanic terrains rich in minerals, enhancing the wine's aromatic profile. These sectors employ a significant portion of the rural workforce, though exact figures vary; in 2022, the primary sector overall engaged about 7.1% of the province's labor force. Manufacturing in Viterbo remains small-scale and artisanal, rooted in medieval traditions that continue to shape local production. , especially the distinctive zaffera ceramics—known for their blue-and-white glazing—has been crafted since the , with artisans preserving techniques passed down through generations in workshops around the city. Stone quarrying focuses on volcanic materials like and peperino , extracted from quarries near Civita Castellana since the mid-20th century, supplying construction and decorative stone for regional architecture. centers on processing local chestnut wood for timber and furniture, with companies specializing in , , and to meet demands in construction and artisan goods. The energy sector emphasizes renewables, positioning Viterbo as a leader in within . The boasts the highest installed solar photovoltaic capacity nationwide, at 1,871 MW as of mid-2025. A key project is the 53 MWp BNZ Camposcala Solar PV Park in the Viterbo , which became operational in early 2025 after construction delays from initial 2023 plans; it is expected to generate approximately 80,000 MWh annually, sufficient to power around 30,000 households. Overall, the primary sector accounts for roughly 7% of in the as of recent data, though producers face challenges from EU regulations on and trade, such as stricter environmental standards under the .

Tourism and services

Viterbo's tourism sector has experienced steady growth, with approximately 125,000 tourists visiting the city in 2024, primarily drawn to its well-preserved , historic papal palace, and natural thermal baths. The influx peaks during the summer months, when warmer weather enhances the appeal of outdoor sites and spa facilities, contributing to seasonal economic boosts in local businesses. In 2024, the city's revenue reached €483,804, reflecting increased overnight stays exceeding 2,000 more than in 2023. Key attractions include the thermal spas, particularly Terme dei Papi, a renowned facility featuring a monumental outdoor pool fed by natural hot springs at a constant 36°C, which has drawn visitors since for its therapeutic properties. These spas, rooted in the region's volcanic geology, serve as a major draw for , accommodating day visitors and overnight guests seeking relaxation and health treatments. contributes significantly to the provincial economy. The service sector in Viterbo encompasses retail, , and education-related activities, employing a significant portion of the workforce amid an overall employment rate of 57.8% for ages 15-64 in 2024. alone supports thousands of jobs through hotels, restaurants, and tour services catering to visitors, while retail outlets in the historic center benefit from tourist spending on local crafts and . The presence of Università degli Studi della , with approximately 7,700 enrolled students as of 2024, further stimulates the economy by increasing demand for housing, dining, and transportation, fostering a vibrant service ecosystem that integrates with . Recent developments indicate continued expansion, with 2025 showing a 12% increase in visitors during the second quarter (51,595 guests) and a 17.16% rise in the third quarter compared to the same periods in 2024, signaling post-pandemic recovery and enhanced promotion efforts. Events such as the 2025 , a festival focused on themes held from to , have boosted off-season attendance by attracting cultural enthusiasts and contributing to a 10.25% rise in overnight stays along key routes like the .

Government

Local administration

Viterbo operates as a within the Italian administrative system, governed by a and a city council. The current , Chiara Frontini, was elected in June 2022 and serves a five-year term ending in 2027. The city council, known as the Consiglio Comunale, consists of 32 elected members responsible for legislative functions, including approving budgets and ordinances. As the capital of the since its establishment in 1927 by Royal Decree-Law No. 1, the municipality coordinates provincial-level services while managing local affairs. The municipality is divided into 13 frazioni, or hamlets, which function as semi-autonomous communities with their own local councils for specific issues like events and maintenance. These include Bagnaia, Castel d'Asso, Fastello, Grotte Santo Stefano, La Quercia, Montecalvello, Monterazzano, Roccalvecce, Sant'Angelo (di Roccalvecce), San Martino al Cimino, Tobia, Vallebona, and Ponte di Cetti. Administrative governance of these areas aligns with zones, which divide the territory into 68 census sections for , planning, and resource allocation. Politically, Viterbo's administration under Frontini has shifted toward center-left policies, emphasizing social inclusion and environmental initiatives despite her initial right-leaning affiliations. Key issues include efforts following the May 2024 discovery and defusal of a 2,000 kg unexploded bomb in the Paradiso neighborhood, which prompted evacuations of over 37,000 residents and highlighted needs for infrastructure reinforcement and community recovery. In 2025, Frontini has focused on urban security through participation in the ANCI and established "Casa Viterbo" as a hub. The municipality oversees essential services such as public utilities (water, electricity distribution coordination) and , handled through the local multi-utility company Talete for water and dedicated municipal contracts for collection and , achieving rates above 50% in recent years. The 2025 budget, part of the 2025-2027 forecast totaling approximately 118 million euros in expenditures for the first year, prioritizes with allocations for energy efficiency, , and climate action plans like the PAESC (Sustainable Energy Action Plan for the Climate).

Military installations

Viterbo , opened in 1937 as a military airfield titled after Lieutenant Pilot Tommaso Fabbri, has served as a central hub for aviation operations since the post-World War II period, with significant expansions to accommodate training and logistical needs. The Aviation Command (Comando Aviazione dell'Esercito, or AVES), established at the airport on October 1, 1997, under the Operational Land Forces Command (COMFOTER), builds on the foundation of the Army Aviation Training Center (Centro Addestrativo Aviazione dell'Esercito, or CAAE). The CAAE traces its origins to the Light Army Aviation Training Center formed on June 1, 1957, initially in Bracciano before relocating to Viterbo in 1958, marking the site's enduring role in development. The Command directs four operational groups, including the 1st Regiment "Antares," the 4th Army Aviation Support Regiment "Scorpione," and elements of the training and support squadrons, focusing on non-combat activities such as pilot and specialist instruction for helicopters like the AW139 and light aircraft such as the . As of 2025, the facility supports around 1,500 military and civilian personnel dedicated to these training missions, ensuring the Italian Army's aviation capabilities for , transport, and support roles. While primarily military, the airport permits limited civilian operations through the Aero Club di Viterbo for and , though access is restricted to maintain operational security. The presence of the Army Aviation Command bolsters Viterbo's local by providing direct and indirect benefits through and services, accounting for approximately 5% of the area's economic activity via military-related jobs.

Culture

Historic sights

Viterbo's historic sights are emblematic of its medieval prominence as a papal seat, featuring well-preserved Gothic and that reflects the city's 13th-century zenith. The Palazzo dei Papi stands as a cornerstone of this heritage, constructed between 1257 and 1266 under the direction of local Raniero Capocci to serve as a secure residence for the papal court amid Roman instability. This Gothic palace, characterized by its robust stone facade, columned with pointed arches, and expansive halls, hosted the first papal conclave in its Sala del Conclave from November 1268 to September 1271, where 19 cardinals were confined until electing after nearly three years of deadlock. The event, the longest in papal history, originated the term "conclave" from the Latin cum clave (with a key), denoting the locked doors that enforced isolation. Today, the palace, located in Piazza San Lorenzo, offers visitors insights into medieval papal governance through its restored interiors and adjacent museums. Adjacent to the Palazzo dei Papi, the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo exemplifies Romanesque durability with elements from the , when it was erected on the site of an earlier Christian atop possible Etruscan foundations. The cathedral's three-nave interior features a cosmatesco pavement and a raised over a 12th-century , the only surviving portion of the original structure, which includes ancient columns and provides a serene underground space for contemplation. A 14th-century Gothic makeover enhanced its form, while the 16th-century facade, commissioned by Cardinal Francesco Gambara, incorporates ornate portals and a rose window. Inside, frescoes by local artist Antonio del Massaro da Viterbo, known as il Pastore (ca. 1450–1528), adorn chapels with depictions such as the Madonna and Child, alongside remnants of 12th-century wall paintings attributed to anonymous Viterbese masters. The structure endured 1944 Allied bombing damage, with postwar restorations preserving its mixed stylistic evolution. The San Pellegrino district represents Europe's largest intact medieval urban quarter, developed in the 13th and 14th centuries as a residential area for pilgrims and artisans, with narrow cobblestone streets, external staircases (profferli), and clustered stone houses that evoke daily life in papal-era Viterbo. Centered around the 11th-century Church of San Pellegrino, documented in 1045 as part of Farfa Abbey holdings, the neighborhood boasts over 200 preserved buildings, including the Palazzo degli Alessandri with its arched loggias and the Torre Scacciaricci, a defensive tower exemplifying the quarter's fortified origins. A key landmark is the Fontana Grande in Piazza Fontana Grande, constructed in 1212 by masons Pietro and Bertoldo di Giovanni to replace an earlier fountain, featuring a simple basin that supplied water via aqueducts and symbolizes the district's communal infrastructure. This labyrinthine area, spared major modern alterations, offers a vivid tableau of 13th-century Tuscan-Latium . Encircling much of the historic center, Viterbo's medieval walls form a 13th-century defensive circuit spanning over 3 kilometers, erected during the city's expansion under papal influence to protect against invasions, with remnants including seven principal gates that facilitated trade and access. Constructed primarily of local peperino stone, the walls integrated earlier 12th-century segments and featured towers for surveillance, reflecting Viterbo's strategic role in the Papal States. Among the gates, Porta della Verità, dating to the 12th century and originally known as Porta dell'Abate for its proximity to abbey lands, stands out with its robust archway and inscription alluding to a medieval trial by ordeal, earning its name from a legend of truth-revealing ordeals conducted nearby. Other surviving portals, such as Porta Romana and Porta San Pietro, maintain their original machicolations and coats of arms, underscoring the walls' role in defining Viterbo's fortified identity.

Festivals and traditions

Viterbo's most prominent is the Trasporto della , an annual held on September 3 to honor the city's , . This event features a towering, illuminated structure approximately 30 meters high and weighing about 5 tons, carried through the historic streets by around 100 devoted porters known as facchini. The machine, redesigned every five years with innovative materials for lightness and durability, culminates in the relics of Santa Rosa being placed at the Church of Santa Maria in Gradi, drawing thousands of spectators. Recognized by as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013, the tradition dates back to the late 13th century and symbolizes communal devotion and physical prowess. Other notable events include the Mercatino di Natale dell'Artigianato Artistico, a December crafts market showcasing local handmade goods and holiday items, organized by Confartigianato and held in the city center until late in the month. In and September, the Festival Nomadica presents exhibitions, workshops, and contests focused on themes, transforming Viterbo's historic sites into a global visual narrative hub. Historical reenactments add to the cultural calendar, such as Ludika 1243 in , where medieval parades and activities in the San Pellegrino district recreate the 1243 siege with costumes, games, and performances for all ages. Viterbo's traditions extend to and , featuring medieval-themed parades that evoke the city's papal past and fairs highlighting local , particularly dishes centered on the renowned Tonda Gentile Romana hazelnuts, such as spreads, pastries, and seasonal sweets. These events foster community bonds, with the alone engaging hundreds in preparation and execution annually, promoting social cohesion through shared heritage and volunteer efforts.

Religion

Patron saints

The primary patron saint of Viterbo is Saint Rose of Viterbo (c. 1235–1252), a Franciscan tertiary known for her ascetic life and public preaching in support of the faction during political strife in the . Born to poor and pious parents in Viterbo, she exhibited signs of holiness from infancy, including visions of the Virgin Mary who instructed her in prayer and devotion. At age seven, Rose became a recluse attached to the , later joining the around 1248, from which she was briefly expelled but reinstated after proving her innocence through a miraculous trial by fire. She died at age 17 on March 6, 1252, after a brief illness, and her cause for began under in 1252, culminating in formal recognition by in 1457. Legends surrounding Saint Rose emphasize her prophetic gifts and miraculous interventions. As a child of three, she reportedly raised her deceased aunt to life through , an event that deepened her family's . During a period of in nearby Vitorchiano around 1250, she traveled there barefoot in winter, preached , and endured a three-hour ordeal in flames without harm, leading to the conversion of a local sorceress and several heretics. Tradition holds that she foretold the death of Emperor Frederick II, a Ghibelline opponent, which occurred on December 13, 1250, bolstering her reputation as a seer aligned with papal authority. Her incorrupt body, exhumed in 1258 at the direction of following visions urging its proper veneration, was enshrined as a of divine favor. Viterbo's secondary patron is (San Lorenzo), the third-century Roman deacon and martyr, whose feast day on August 10 integrates into the city's liturgical calendar alongside veneration of Saint Rose. Local tradition regards him as the "original" protector of the city, tied to its early Christian heritage, though Saint Rose's cult has grown more prominent since the . Modern veneration of Saint Rose centers on her relics, preserved incorrupt in the Church of Saint Rose (Santuario di Santa Rosa) in Viterbo, where they draw pilgrims year-round. Annual commemorations extend beyond the principal feast on September 4—including the translation of her relics in 1258—to her dies natalis on , marked by Masses and prayers for her as patron of the , exiles, and Franciscan youth. A notable featuring her statue occurs during the September festival, highlighting her enduring role in Viterbo's spiritual identity.

Religious sites

Viterbo's religious landscape features several historic churches and monasteries that reflect its medieval Christian heritage, with architectural elements spanning Romanesque to styles. Among the prominent sites is the Church of Santa Maria della Verità, originally a monastic church dedicated to Saint Macario before being renamed and rebuilt in the , with its adjacent convent now serving as the Civic Museum of Viterbo. The church preserves a notable 15th-century tile floor crafted by local ceramist Paolo di Nicola, featuring intricate geometric patterns that evoke the decorative traditions of central Italian sacred spaces. The Basilica of San Francesco alla Rocca, a 13th-century Franciscan constructed starting in 1237 on land donated by , exemplifies early Gothic influences in the region with its elegant portal and surviving medieval elements despite partial reconstruction after damage. Inside, it houses significant tombs, including those of Cardinal Marco of Viterbo (died 1369), a general of the Friars Minor, as well as papal monuments for Clement IV (died 1268) and Adrian V (died 1276), underscoring Viterbo's role as a papal seat in the 13th century. The basilica's Romanesque facade with twisted columns further highlights its hybrid stylistic evolution. Viterbo maintains active monastic traditions through its Franciscan institutions, particularly the of Santa Rosa, a Clarisse () convent with roots tracing to 1235, when Bishop Matthew of Viterbo and facilitated the arrival of the order's nuns. Linked to the city's , the monastery incorporates her relics and expanded in the under the order's patronage, remaining a vital center for Franciscan observance. Other active Franciscan sites include the San Bernardino Clarisse in the historic center, near the medieval San Pellegrino district, continuing the order's contemplative legacy. The city's Jewish heritage is preserved in remnants of its medieval , established in and abolished in 1859, with the dating back to at least 1272 when documents record Jewish residents, including loan-banker Elia in 1294. By 1300, the numbered about 100, and a operated from the 13th century in the house of physician Salamone da , though it was closed in 1870 following the departure of the last in 1873. The area, located in the historic center, retains traces of its original layout as a testament to Viterbo's multicultural past.

Transportation

Road and rail networks

Viterbo is well-integrated into Italy's road network, primarily through the Strada Statale 2 (SS2) Cassia, an ancient route originating from Roman times that connects the city directly to over approximately 80 kilometers, with typical driving times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. The SS2 facilitates regional travel northward toward and , while access to the Autostrada del Sole (A1) is available via the nearby junction, about 20 kilometers southeast, enabling faster intercity journeys to major hubs like (via the A1 south) or (north). To manage urban congestion, Viterbo features a system, including the Tangenziale Ovest, which diverts through-traffic around the city center and supports smoother flow for local and commuter vehicles. The city's rail infrastructure centers on the FL3 regional line, operated by , which runs from Viterbo Porta Fiorentina station to , terminating at Roma Termini with direct services taking about 1.5 hours. This line serves as a vital commuter corridor, carrying approximately 70,000 passengers daily as of 2024 and connecting to 's broader metro and high-speed networks. Recent reports have highlighted ongoing reliability issues on the FL3, including frequent delays and cancellations, ranking it among Italy's most problematic commuter lines. Regional trains from Viterbo also provide onward connections to (via Attigliano-Bomarzo, approximately 2 hours total) and (via , around 3.5 hours), supporting tourism and business travel within . Public bus services are managed by Cotral, the regional transport company, offering extensive routes within Viterbo Province, including connections to nearby towns like and Civita Castellana, as well as intercity links to and airports such as (Leonardo da Vinci). These services complement rail options, with frequent departures from key stops like Viterbo Riello, though they face occasional disruptions during peak hours. In line with broader goals, Viterbo's 2025 Piano Urbano della Mobilità Sostenibile (PUMS) outlines expansions for eco-friendly public transport, including enhanced bus networks, distributed terminals to reduce , and incentives for walking and to promote greener urban mobility over the next decade. Daily transportation usage in Viterbo involves significant commuter flows, with the FL3 rail line alone handling up to 70,000 trips as of 2024, many to and from , alongside road traffic that exacerbates congestion. The historic center poses particular challenges due to its narrow medieval streets, which are ill-suited for modern vehicle volumes, leading to parking overflows, heavy passages, and calls under the PUMS for restrictions on private cars and freight to improve safety and livability.

Air and other access

The primary air access to Viterbo is provided by Rome Viterbo Airport (ICAO: LIRV), a airfield located approximately 3 km northwest of the city center. Primarily utilized by the Aviation for training flights and operations, it supports limited civilian activities through a local aeroclub offering services. Recent upgrades aim to expand its role as a hybrid civilian- facility to boost regional connectivity. In 2024, Italy's National (ENAC) doubled funding to €2 million for improvements, including enhancements, positioning Viterbo within a network of regional airports alongside Urbe and others to support and local flights. Beyond aviation, alternative access options emphasize eco-friendly and recreational modes. The region surrounding Viterbo features an extensive network of bike paths, including scenic routes along the historic trail and trails through the Cimini Mountains, catering to both casual riders and enthusiasts. Viterbo's location, roughly 20 km south of Lake Bolsena, facilitates boating access, with organized cruises, ferries to islands like Bisentina, and water sports available from nearby ports in Bolsena and Marta. Viterbo lacks a major port, but the Marta River, originating from Lake Bolsena and spanning 53 km to the , supports minor navigation for small recreational boats and fishing vessels along its course through towns. For enhanced , key transport hubs incorporate wheelchair-friendly features, such as ramps and adapted facilities, while apps like Wheelmap enable users to plan routes with real-time information for air, water, and cycling options.

Education

Primary and secondary education

Viterbo's primary and system aligns with Italy's national structure, where is compulsory from ages 6 to 16 and managed primarily by the Ministry of Education through local institutes. The city features 19 primary schools (scuole primarie) for children aged 6 to 11, comprising 13 public and 6 private institutions. These schools focus on foundational , , and civic , with classes typically organized into five grades and average class sizes of 20-25 students. Middle schools, known as scuole secondarie di primo grado, number 12 in Viterbo (8 public and 4 private), catering to students aged 11 to 14 across three grades. The curriculum emphasizes core subjects like Italian, , history, and foreign languages, preparing pupils for the state exam at the end of lower . High schools (scuole secondarie di secondo grado) total 22, including 9 public options such as licei classici, scientifici, and linguistici, as well as technical and vocational institutes; private high schools add 13 more, often with specialized tracks in , , and arts. These institutions serve ages 14 to 19 over five years, culminating in the maturità exam for access. State-run schools dominate the system and incorporate EU-funded initiatives through the European Social Fund (FSE) and Regional Operational Programs, supporting teacher training, inclusive education, and infrastructure improvements in Lazio. Many schools emphasize bilingual education, particularly English-Italian immersion programs, to enhance language skills and global competitiveness, as seen in curricula at institutions like the Istituto Comprensivo Luigi Fantappiè. Enrollment trends as of 2025 show a decline in primary school new students (-9% from 2024) while middle and high school enrollments are stable or slightly increasing, reflecting Italy's low birth rates. Key challenges include ensuring equitable access in Viterbo's rural frazioni, such as Bagnaia and Grotte Santo Stefano, where limited hinders attendance for students from remote areas. Integration of immigrant children, who represent about 10-15% of enrollment in urban schools, remains a priority, with programs addressing language barriers and cultural adaptation through dedicated support classes and counseling. In response to post-COVID learning disruptions, 2025 initiatives have focused on , including the distribution of devices and training in coding and online safety via national Piano Nazionale Scuola Digitale extensions, funded by the Ministry of Education to equip over 80% of classrooms with updated technology.

Higher education and research

The University of Tuscia (Università degli Studi della Tuscia, or UNITUS), established in 1979, serves as Viterbo's principal higher education institution and a key cultural hub for the surrounding province. It enrolls approximately 8,000 students in over 40 undergraduate and graduate programs across six departments, with particular emphasis on agriculture and forest sciences (), ecological and biological sciences (DEB), and , communication, and (DISTU), the latter of which integrates studies in preservation and Etruscan . These programs leverage Viterbo's historical and natural context, fostering interdisciplinary approaches to regional challenges like sustainable land use and heritage management. Research at the University of emphasizes applied sciences relevant to the local environment, including centers dedicated to and . The institution conducts studies on the region's volcanic , such as the historical and petrological analysis of peperino rocks—ancient lava formations extensively used in Etruscan and Roman —which informs both assessment and cultural preservation efforts. In , the Agroenergy Laboratory explores utilization, energy-efficient agro-districts, and feasibility assessments for sustainable power sources, aligning with broader European goals for reducing dependency. Collaborations with the National Council (CNR) enhance Etruscan studies through joint projects on Mediterranean ancient societies, incorporating archaeological data from Tuscia's Etruscan sites to advance digital modeling and historical reconstruction techniques. Beyond degree programs, Viterbo supports vocational training in via specialized courses within the DISTU department, which prepare professionals for the region's heritage-based economy through practical skills in management and event planning. A notable initiative is the 2025 phase of the project, an partnership coordinated by the university, which develops a European Specialization School in to train experts in green technologies, including renewable integration and , with hands-on modules hosted in Viterbo. The university's student body significantly influences Viterbo's demographics, comprising about 12% of the city's estimated 66,000 residents and injecting vitality into local services and community dynamics.

Notable people

Historical figures

Saint Rose of Viterbo (c. 1235–1251), born to poor and pious parents in Viterbo, demonstrated remarkable holiness and miraculous powers from a young age. At three years old, she reportedly raised her dead aunt to life, and at seven, she revived a neighbor's deceased child. Entering the Franciscan Third Order at ten, she wore the habit and lived ascetically at home following a vision of the Virgin Mary at age eight, who instructed her to emulate Saint Francis of Assisi. By twelve, Rose began public preaching against the heretics and the occupation of Viterbo by Emperor Frederick II, inciting local resistance and drawing crowds with rumored miracles, such as levitating during sermons. Her influence led to exile with her family to Vitorchiano in 1247, but she returned after Frederick's defeat in 1250. Denied entry to a convent due to her poverty, she died on September 4, 1251, at age sixteen or seventeen; her body was later translated to the Church of Santa Rosa in 1258 under Pope Alexander IV's auspices, where it remains incorrupt. Rose's cult was approved by the local bishop shortly after her death, and she became Viterbo's patron saint, inspiring annual processions and devotion to Franciscan spirituality and political orthodoxy. Cardinal Raniero Capocci (c. 1180–1250), a native of Viterbo, rose to prominence as a key papal diplomat during the 13th-century conflicts between the Papacy and the Holy Roman Empire. Appointed cardinal-deacon of Santa Maria in Via Lata by Pope Gregory IX on December 18, 1228, he served as a trusted legate, negotiating treaties and bolstering papal authority in central Italy. In 1243, as bishop of Viterbo (a post he held briefly from 1243 to 1244), Capocci led the expulsion of Imperialist forces from the city, aligning Viterbo firmly with the Guelph faction and contributing to Frederick II's setbacks in the region. He played a pivotal role in the 1244 peace treaty between Pope Innocent IV and the emperor, though tensions persisted, and participated in several papal conclaves, including those electing Innocent IV in 1243. Capocci's tenure as papal legate in Viterbo from 1234 to 1249 solidified the city's status as a papal stronghold, and he died in Anagni on June 22, 1250, leaving a legacy of diplomatic maneuvering that protected papal interests amid feudal strife. Pope (1199–1261), born Rinaldo dei Conti in Jenne near Subiaco, forged deep ties to Viterbo through his papacy and residence there. Elected pope on April 12, 1254, following Innocent IV's death, he faced ongoing Guelph-Ghibelline conflicts and relocated the papal court from turbulent to Viterbo in 1257 for security, commissioning the construction of the Palazzo dei Papi as a fortified seat. During his four-year stay, Alexander issued key bulls, including the 1259 Ad extirpanda on inquisitions, and convened synods that reinforced Viterbo's role in ecclesiastical governance. He died in Viterbo on May 25, 1261, and was initially buried in the , though his tomb's location is now unknown; the papal court remained in the city for two decades afterward, hosting conclaves and solidifying its medieval prominence. Alexander's Viterbo period marked a shift in papal administration away from , enhancing the city's strategic and symbolic importance in 13th-century . Viterbo's medieval artistic heritage includes the work of Cosmatesque craftsmen, marble artisans active in the 12th and 13th centuries who specialized in geometric inlaid pavements and decorative elements using recycled Roman materials. These anonymous masters, influenced by the Roman family tradition, created intricate mosaics symbolizing cosmic order, such as the cosmatesque floor in Viterbo Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo), laid in the 13th century with porphyry, , and discs forming labyrinthine patterns. Their craftsmanship also adorns papal tombs, including that of (d. 1276) in the cathedral, featuring borders and symbolic motifs that blended Byzantine and Romanesque styles. These works not only beautified sacred spaces but also reflected Viterbo's prosperity as a papal residence, with artisans contributing to over a dozen churches and the Palazzo dei Papi's interiors.

Contemporary individuals

In politics, Chiara Frontini has emerged as a prominent figure as the first female of Viterbo, elected in June 2022 on a center-right independent platform and serving since then, with her term ending in 2027, focusing on enhancement and public-private collaborations for . Her administration has prioritized sustainable urban development, including initiatives for the Feast of Santa Rosa and anti-terrorism measures during cultural events. In the arts, Carlo Bernardini, born in Viterbo in 1966, is a renowned contemporary specializing in light-based installations and fiber optic sculptures that explore and , with works exhibited internationally since the . Franco Bernini, also born in Viterbo in 1954, has made significant contributions as a and director, collaborating on films like Notte italiana (1987) and directing Le mani forti (1997), while teaching at Italy's National . Scientific research at the University of Tuscia in Viterbo has produced notable environmental experts, such as Paolo De Angelis, a full whose work on and climate change impacts on woody plants has advanced understanding through modeling and field studies in . Researchers like Clara Cicatiello focus on sustainable supply chains in agro-food systems, emphasizing practices for forestry and food waste reduction. In sports, , born in Viterbo in 1987, is one of 's most celebrated footballers, known for his tenure as a centre-back with Juventus, , and the national team, earning over 100 caps and contributing to the 2020 victory before retiring in 2024. , born in Viterbo in 1970, was a distinguished who played for and , winning the 2000 Cup and securing two titles. Local cycling enthusiasts leverage Tuscia's trails for training and contribute to regional amateur competitions.

International relations

Twin towns

Viterbo maintains several formal partnerships, known as gemellaggi in Italian, to promote cultural, educational, and economic exchanges. These agreements facilitate student programs, participation in trade fairs, and collaborative events that enhance mutual understanding and . As of 2025, the city has five active international twin towns, each emphasizing shared historical or cultural themes. The partnerships yield benefits such as increased through joint promotional initiatives and organized heritage workshops, including events held in recent years to share medieval preservation techniques. Educational exchanges, particularly for youth, have been a cornerstone, with programs enabling student mobility and . These ties also support trade fairs focused on local products like and wine, boosting Viterbo's economy while fostering global connections.
Twin TownCountryYear EstablishedPrimary Focus
1955Cultural heritage and papal history; exchanges in art, theater, and agroalimentare sectors.
AlbanyNot specifiedCultural and economic cooperation, including student programs and trade initiatives.
Santa Rosa de ViterboNot specifiedItalian-Brazilian heritage and community strengthening.
Qingyang2014 development and historical-cultural exchanges.
Not specified (circa 2020)Historical and archaeological collaborations.
These municipal twins differ from informal cultural partnerships by adhering to official protocols signed between city administrations.

Cultural partnerships

Viterbo fosters international collaborations in arts, education, and environmental spheres through non-binding thematic partnerships, emphasizing cultural exchange and shared heritage preservation. In education, the University of Tuscia facilitates Erasmus+ exchanges with numerous institutions, including universities in such as and in like the , enabling student and staff mobilities for academic and cultural immersion. The university also coordinates the EU-funded project, which empowers higher education communities to address gender bias and promote equality, with transnational partners across and a key meeting hosted in Viterbo in 2024. Culturally, the city's annual Transport of the —a towering, shoulder-borne honoring Santa Rosa—is inscribed on 's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2013, inspiring global dialogues on devotional traditions and community craftsmanship. Viterbo further collaborates with French medieval towns, such as through the European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA), a Cultural Route joined in 2024, supporting joint restoration efforts for historic thermal sites and in places like and . Environmentally, Viterbo engages in sister initiatives with volcanic regions via EHTTA, sharing expertise on geothermal heritage management, exemplified by knowledge exchanges on sustainable thermal utilization akin to those in Iceland's volcanic landscapes. In 2025, Viterbo hosted the Beauty and the Built Landscape week (June 16–21), including an International Congress that convened global urban planners to discuss aesthetic principles in and city planning.

References

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