Nestled in the heart of the Lazio region, Bagnoregio stands as a gem set between millennia of history and breathtaking landscapes. Formerly known as Bagnorea, its name derives from Balneum Regis, a clear reference to the ancient thermal waters once famous for their therapeutic properties. Although these waters are no longer in use today, the legend of their healing power, such as the story of the Lombard king Desiderius who was cured here in the 8th century, is just one of the many accounts that enhance the charm of this place.
One cannot speak of Bagnoregio without mentioning Civita di Bagnoregio, a small village suspended in time and space, also known as “The Dying City.” This nickname stems from the constant erosion of the ground on which it stands, making Civita a fragile location, yet one of almost unreal beauty. Connected to the rest of the world by a long pedestrian bridge, Civita seems to float in the void, with its narrow medieval alleys, stone houses, and an atmosphere that transports visitors back in time, to the eras of the Etruscans and Romans.
Bagnoregio has witnessed crucial historical eras, from ancient Etruscan times to Roman and Lombard rule, and up to the present day. The city was a crossroads between Volsinii (modern-day Orvieto) and the Tiber River, holding a strategic role during Roman rule. After the fall of the Empire, Bagnoregio was contested by the Visigoths, Byzantines, Lombards, and finally, under Charlemagne, it came under Papal control, remaining one of the most important centers in the region.
Among the most renowned figures the city has given to the world is Saint Bonaventure, one of the Doctors of the Church, born in Bagnoregio in the 13th century. The city’s connection to the Franciscan tradition and its historical significance have left an indelible mark on its urban and architectural structure, such as the Church of San Donato or the Cathedral, true masterpieces waiting to be discovered.
Bagnoregio is much more than just a tourist destination. Its natural landscape, characterized by deep valleys, rolling green hills, and panoramic views that encompass the entire Viterbo Tuscia region, offers a unique experience. For nature lovers, the surrounding area is ideal for hiking, trekking, and outdoor activities.
