Nestled among the picturesque hills of the Valley of Calanchi, Civita di Bagnoregio is a place that seems suspended in time. Also known as “The Dying City,” a term coined by writer Bonaventura Tecchi, Civita is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Its extraordinary beauty and unique atmosphere make it an unmissable destination for those looking to experience a journey through history, nature, and mystery.
Civita is located in the municipality of Bagnoregio, in the province of Viterbo, between Lake Bolsena and the Tiber Valley. The village stands on a tuff spur, surrounded by calanchi, the characteristic clay formations created by erosion. These fascinating valleys give the landscape a surreal and breathtaking appearance, making it perfect for those who love photography and unspoiled nature.
Reaching Civita is not easy: the village is connected to the outside world by a pedestrian bridge that crosses the valley. This isolation, caused by the progressive erosion threatening the area, adds to its charm, making it an exclusive destination.
Founded by the Etruscans over 2,500 years ago, Civita boasts a long history intertwined with Roman and medieval times. The Etruscans, skilled masters of engineering, constructed drainage and containment works to protect the city from erosion. Many of these ancient structures are still visible today, such as the famous “Bucaione,” a tunnel that runs through the rock and leads to the valley below.
Walking through the streets of Civita is like taking a plunge into the past. The medieval houses, the Church of San Donato that overlooks the main square, and the Alemanni Palace, which houses the Geological and Landslide Museum, all tell the millennia-old story of this village that has managed to withstand the adversities of nature and time.
In addition to its architectural beauty, Civita di Bagnoregio also offers a rich cultural and spiritual tradition. On Good Friday, the most heartfelt ceremony for the locals takes place at the Church of San Donato: the procession of the Holy Crucifix, a tradition that dates back centuries. It is said that during a plague epidemic, the Crucifix spoke to a pious woman, assuring her that the plague would come to an end, which happened shortly thereafter.
Among the most notable events is the “Palio della Tonna,” a race between the neighborhoods of the village that takes place on donkey back in the main square. This event, held on the first Sunday of June and the second Sunday of September, is an opportunity to immerse oneself in local folk traditions, filled with colors, music, and passionate cheering.
In recent years, Civita di Bagnoregio has become an increasingly popular destination for both Italian and international tourists. The village, part of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” association, attracts thousands of visitors each year due to its unique charm and the tranquil atmosphere it offers. Since 2013, access to the village has been subject to a fee, a measure implemented to preserve the delicate balance of the area.
Despite the challenges posed by erosion, which threatens to erase it from the Italian landscape, Civita di Bagnoregio continues to thrive, offering visitors an unforgettable experience where the past and wild nature blend in perfect harmony.
Piazza del Vescovado, 71, 01022 Civita VT