San Martino Al Cimino
Welcome to San Martino al Cimino!
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about San Martino al Cimino, a beautiful hamlet in Viterbo. Are you ready? Then let's explore this wonder together!
History
The village of San Martino al Cimino was built in the 13th century with the construction of an abbey by the Cistercians of the Pontigny Abbey. Over the centuries, the village experienced great development thanks to the interest of Donna Olimpia, widow of the Marquis Pamphilio Pamphilj and sister-in-law of Pope Innocent X. She entrusted Francesco Borromini with the architectural renovation of the village and Marc'Antonio de Rossi with the design of the perimeter walls, gates and houses. The result was an urban work ante litteram, with the first examples of planned construction and the creation of a lively town, which housed subjects exempt from tax payments and equipped with shops, taverns, and organized entertainment.
What to see
San Martino al Cimino still retains traces of its ancient curtain wall and its original urban structure. The upper part of the town houses the church and the Palazzo Doria Pamphili, built in the 17th century on the initiative of Donna Olimpia using some of the materials left over from the restructuring of the Pamphili family's property in Rome in Piazza Navona. Inside the Palazzo Doria-Pamphili, you can admire the coffered ceiling of Olimpia Maidalchini's bedroom, a real rarity that can be lowered through a pulley system to reduce the total volume of the room and increase heating.
How to get there
San Martino al Cimino is easily accessible through two gates: one in the lower part called "viterbese," because it heads towards Viterbo, and the other in the upper part called "montana," because it leads towards the mountain, Lake Vico, and Rome. The village is about 5 kilometers from the center of Viterbo and can be reached by car or public transportation.
Conclusion
In short, San Martino al Cimino is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit. Thanks to its history, architectural beauties, and its location immersed in nature, it represents a perfect option for those who want to spend a different day than usual. What are you waiting for? Come and discover this wonder!
