Ronciglione, a charming village nestled in the heart of Tuscia Viterbese, about 60 km north of Rome, is a must-visit destination for lovers of history, culture, and nature. Perched atop a tuff cliff, the town boasts a captivating blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, bearing witness to a rich and diverse past.
The first mentions of Ronciglione date back to 1103, when the village was under the rule of the Prefects of Vico. Later, in the 16th century, it came under the control of the Farnese family, experiencing a period of great splendor and economic growth. During this time, the town became an important manufacturing center, producing iron, copper, paper, and ceramics.
The Fountain of the Unicorns, also known as Fontana Grande, was designed by the renowned architect Vignola in the 16th century. Adorned with mythological figures from whose mouths water flows, it is one of the most picturesque spots in the town.
The Ronciglione Carnival is considered one of the oldest and most fascinating in Italy. The celebrations include the traditional “Cavalcata degli Ussari”, where horsemen dressed in 18th-century costumes parade through the town’s streets, and the “Corse a Vuoto”, thrilling races in which riderless horses gallop through the city roads.
