Tuscania
Let's explore the city of Tuscania
Hello friends, today I will tell you about Tuscania! This beautiful city located in the province of Viterbo, Lazio, has about 8200 inhabitants and is also known as Toscanella, a name that was changed only in 1911.
Physical geography
Tuscania, like many other cities in the area, is built on some tuff rock hills, precisely seven, overlooking the Marta river and the Fosso Capecchio. Since it was an important communication route between Lake Bolsena and the Tyrrhenian Sea since prehistoric times, the Marta valley was significant for trade and transhumance.
The western part of the city extends towards Arlena di Castro, with a vast wooded area and a maximum altitude of only 300 meters above sea level. You can find places like Pianaccio, Poggio della Madonna, Pian delle Rusciare and Poggio Porciaro.
The climate is classified as zone D, with 1654 GR/G.
Origin of the name
It is not known what the name was in pre-Roman times. In Latin it was called "Tuscana," derived from "tuscum" plus the Latin predial suffix "-anus," which indicates possession, with the meaning of Tusci's territory or city, the name with which the Romans referred to the Etruscans.
History
Legendary origins
The city has two versions of its origin in mythology: the first, reported by the Roman historian Tito Annio Lusco, states that Tuscania was founded by the son of Aeneas, Ascanius, in the place where twelve puppies of Canis lupus familiaris were found (hence the Latin name "Tus-cana"). The second version indicates as founder "Tusco," son of Hercules and Araxe.
From prehistory to the Etruscan period
In Tuscania, relics dating back to the Paleolithic have been found, but the first important settlements date back to the Bronze Age, between the 3rd and 2nd millennium BC. The Etruscan necropolises of the "Scalette" and the "Pantacciano" are the most important relics of this phase.
In the 8th century BC, the Etruscan civilization developed the acropolis on the San Pietro hill, which was located outside the city walls. One cannot speak of a single inhabited center during this period, but probably of a set of small villages with predominantly agricultural vocation that had as a reference point the San Pietro hill, becoming one of the most important political and religious centers of Tuscia.
In the following centuries, the geographical position of the city, halfway between the Tyrrhenian Sea, Lake Bolsena, and the inner Etruria, together with control of the Marta river valley, favored the development and prosperity of Tuscania. It became a commercial city, and one of the most important cities of Tarquinia's lucumonia, with the name of "Tusena" in the Etruscan age, and was the center of the road network between the coast and the inland.
What to see in Tuscania
Now that we have learned a little history of Tuscania, it's time to explore the city! The city is a historical and artistic gem, with numerous tourist attractions.
The historic center
The historic center of Tuscania is a landmark in Lazio for its beauty and excellent preservation. The historic center is surrounded by medieval walls that were built in the 13th century. Some of the medieval gates, such as the Porta Romana, still exist. Inside the walls, you can find the Cathedral of San Giusto and the Palace of the Municipality.
The Cathedral of San Giusto
The Cathedral of San Giusto is a typical example of Romanesque architecture and is one of the most important places in the city. The Cathedral's structure has undergone several modifications over the centuries, giving rise to a mix of architectural styles. Inside, you can admire frescoes, sculptures, and sacred works of great historical importance.
The Palace of the Municipality
The Palace of the Municipality, one of Tuscania's oldest buildings from the XI century, is located in the main square of the city, Piazza del Comune. This building has undergone numerous interventions and requalifications over the centuries, but always maintaining its medieval characteristics.
The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore
The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore is also located in Piazza del Comune and is another testimony of Romanesque architecture present in Tuscania. It was built in the 12th century and has some frescoes from the period inside.
These are just some of the places of interest that you can visit in Tuscania. The city is, in fact, rich in numerous other monuments and historical relics.
What to eat in Tuscania
The cuisine of Tuscania is a mixture of typical Lazio recipes and Etruscan tradition, making it a perfect destination for food lovers. The city is renowned for its meat specialties, such as wild boar, cod, and tripe, but also offers vegetarian dishes such as bruschetta with cherry tomatoes.
In any case, you must try traditional sweets such as the "Certosina" cake, the "Pesca" cake, and the "Frittelli" pastry. We suggest taking a walk through the streets of the historic center, where you can find a wide range of restaurants and trattorias offering traditional Tuscania cuisine.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Tuscania is a wonderful city with a long and rich history. The city also offers numerous tourist opportunities including visits to historical monuments, excellent cuisine, and a beautiful historic center. So, if you are looking for a vacation where you can immerse yourself in cultural and gastronomic heritage, Tuscania is the right place for you!
