Civita Castellana
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Latest page update: 22 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Civita Castellana
Civita Castellana offers a modest but appealing selection of established hotels, suited to its historic character and position between the Cimini Hills and the Tiber Valley. The best-rated options combine comfort, convenience and strong guest feedback, providing a good base for exploring this area of northern Lazio.
Palazzo Catalani Resort is a top choice, set in a beautifully restored historic building with elegant rooms, a restaurant and excellent service, praised for its atmosphere and attention to detail (€€€). Hotel Sassacci, located just outside the town centre, provides modern accommodation with on-site dining and parking, appreciated for its cleanliness, practicality and friendly staff (€€). For travellers seeking a relaxed countryside stay, Relais Falisco in nearby Civita Castellana’s historic core offers refined rooms, a small wellness area and a restaurant, earning consistently positive reviews for comfort and hospitality (€€€).
Palazzo Catalani Resort is a top choice, set in a beautifully restored historic building with elegant rooms, a restaurant and excellent service, praised for its atmosphere and attention to detail (€€€). Hotel Sassacci, located just outside the town centre, provides modern accommodation with on-site dining and parking, appreciated for its cleanliness, practicality and friendly staff (€€). For travellers seeking a relaxed countryside stay, Relais Falisco in nearby Civita Castellana’s historic core offers refined rooms, a small wellness area and a restaurant, earning consistently positive reviews for comfort and hospitality (€€€).
Where is
Where is Civita Castellana?
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The town of Civita Castellana belongs to the historical area known as Tuscia, the Roman name for Etruria, the land of the Etruscans.
Civita Castellana is situated within the Province of Viterbo and stands at an elevation of 145 metres above sea level. The town has a population of around 16,000 while places of interest nearby include Castel Sant'Elia, Nepi, Fabrica di Roma and Caprarola. |
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Comune di Civita Castellana
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Province: Viterbo
Region: Lazio Population: 15,175 (in 2024 - source) Size: 83 km² Elevation: 145 metres Close by: Castel Sant'Elia, Nepi, Fabrica di Roma, Caprarola Recommended hotel: Antico Borgo di Sutri (18 km) |
What People Ask About Civita Castellana
Is Civita Castellana worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Civita Castellana?
How do I get to Civita Castellana?
When is the best time to visit Civita Castellana?
What food is Civita Castellana known for?
Related links
Discover
Discover Civita Castellana
Civita Castellana is a historic town in northern Lazio, set on a plateau of tufa rock above the deep gorges of the Treja and Rio Maggiore rivers. Its elevated position offers wide views over the surrounding valleys and towards the Apennine foothills. The town’s layout combines ancient, medieval, and Renaissance elements, with winding streets, stone archways, and buildings that reflect its long-standing strategic and artistic importance within the Tuscia region.
The town is renowned for the Forte Sangallo, a Renaissance fortress designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder for Pope Alexander VI, now housing an archaeological museum with artefacts from the ancient Faliscan civilisation. Other significant landmarks include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, featuring a Cosmatesque floor and 13th-century mosaics, and the Church of San Pietro, which preserves early medieval origins. Located south of Viterbo and north of Nepi, Civita Castellana stands at a crossroads between Lazio and Umbria, with the surrounding cliffs and valleys forming part of one of central Italy’s most striking natural settings.
The town is renowned for the Forte Sangallo, a Renaissance fortress designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder for Pope Alexander VI, now housing an archaeological museum with artefacts from the ancient Faliscan civilisation. Other significant landmarks include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, featuring a Cosmatesque floor and 13th-century mosaics, and the Church of San Pietro, which preserves early medieval origins. Located south of Viterbo and north of Nepi, Civita Castellana stands at a crossroads between Lazio and Umbria, with the surrounding cliffs and valleys forming part of one of central Italy’s most striking natural settings.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Civita Castellana
- Centro Storico di Civita Castellana is a lively hill town where broad streets and narrow alleys wind among medieval houses, noble palaces, and terracotta rooftops. Stone façades, arched gateways, and grand piazzas bring depth and grandeur to the urban landscape. The town sits above deep ravines carved by rivers in northern Lazio, surrounded by green hills and views stretching toward the Tiber Valley. Its atmosphere blends vibrant town life with ancient Etruscan roots and Renaissance elegance.
- Cattedrale di Santa Maria Maggiore stands as a jewel of Civita Castellana, with a striking Cosmatesque façade and a bright, spacious interior. Inside are marble columns, intricate mosaics, and beautifully carved pulpits reflecting centuries of artistic mastery. The cathedral remains central to religious life and cultural events. It’s a serene and inspiring place to visit while exploring the historic streets.
- Piazza Matteotti serves as the social and cultural heart of Civita Castellana, edged with elegant palaces, bustling cafés, and inviting shops. Locals and visitors gather here for markets, festivals, and lively conversation. Outdoor seating offers views of Renaissance façades and the vibrant rhythm of town life. The square reflects the dynamic yet authentic spirit of this Lazio town.
- Forte Sangallo dominates the town’s skyline, an imposing Renaissance fortress built by order of Pope Alexander VI and designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder. The fortress features powerful walls, bastions, and elegant internal courtyards. Touring its chambers reveals military history and stunning views over the ravines and valleys below. It’s a highlight for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike.
- Guided historical and artistic tours in Civita Castellana explore medieval streets, Etruscan remnants, and the artistic legacy visible in churches and palaces. Local guides share stories about papal politics, Renaissance art, and the town’s strategic importance. Tours often include tastings of local wines, traditional cheeses, and Tuscia specialities. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the cultural richness and layered history of northern Lazio.
Tours and Activities
Civita Castellana Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Civita Castellana Photo Gallery
Lazio Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Lazio
1. Rome
2. Ponza
3. Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
4. Castelli Romani
5. Sperlonga
6. Ostia Antica
7. Cività di Bagnoregio
8. Lake Bracciano
9. Montecassino Abbey
10. Gaeta
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lazio
1. Rome
2. Ponza
3. Villa d'Este (Tivoli)
4. Castelli Romani
5. Sperlonga
6. Ostia Antica
7. Cività di Bagnoregio
8. Lake Bracciano
9. Montecassino Abbey
10. Gaeta
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lazio
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Civita Castellana
By Rail: Civita Castellana is served by the Civita Castellana-Magliano station, located just outside the town on the Rome–Viterbo regional line operated by Trenitalia. Trains reach Rome in approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes and Viterbo in around 45 minutes. The station is easily accessible from the town centre by local bus or taxi.
By Road: Civita Castellana is located in the province of Viterbo, northern Lazio, about 65 kilometres north of Rome. The town is well connected via the A1 motorway, with the Magliano Sabina exit providing direct access. From Rome, the drive takes roughly 1 hour, while from Viterbo it is about 35 kilometres and takes around 40 minutes. Parking is available near the historic centre and at several car parks around the town.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Civita Castellana is located in the province of Viterbo, northern Lazio, about 65 kilometres north of Rome. The town is well connected via the A1 motorway, with the Magliano Sabina exit providing direct access. From Rome, the drive takes roughly 1 hour, while from Viterbo it is about 35 kilometres and takes around 40 minutes. Parking is available near the historic centre and at several car parks around the town.
Nearest International Airports:
- Rome Fiumicino Airport: Around 85 kilometres from Civita Castellana, with a driving time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A12 and GRA ring road. It is the main international airport serving central Italy.
- Rome Ciampino Airport: Located roughly 80 kilometres away, taking approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes by car via the A1 motorway and GRA ring road. Commonly used for low-cost flights within Europe.
- Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport: Approximately 140 kilometres north, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 50 minutes. A practical alternative for travellers arriving from northern and central Europe.
Private Transfers
Civita Castellana Private Transfers
A private transfer is an efficient and comfortable way to reach Civita Castellana or continue your journey from the town to other destinations in Lazio and central Italy. You’ll be collected directly from your preferred location and driven by a professional local driver, avoiding the need for public transport or car hire.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Rome Fiumicino Airport and Rome Ciampino Airport, offering straightforward travel for both arrivals and departures. The journey from Rome to Civita Castellana usually takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Viterbo, Calcata, and Civitavecchia Port, or to destinations such as Orvieto and Todi in Umbria.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
Private transfers can be arranged to and from Rome Fiumicino Airport and Rome Ciampino Airport, offering straightforward travel for both arrivals and departures. The journey from Rome to Civita Castellana usually takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Transfers can also be organised to Viterbo, Calcata, and Civitavecchia Port, or to destinations such as Orvieto and Todi in Umbria.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
