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Church of San Pietro: A Lombard-Romanesque Masterpiece in Tuscania

Explore the Church of San Pietro in Tuscania, a stunning example of Lombard-Romanesque architecture with a rich history and artistic heritage.

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The Church of San Pietro, located just outside Tuscania, is a stunning example of Lombard-Romanesque architecture. Dating back to the early Middle Ages, it features a beautiful facade with a rose window and intricate carvings, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and artistic heritage.

A brief summary to Church of San Pietro

  • Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-1 pm
  • Friday 10 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Take your time to admire the intricate details of the facade, including the rose window and the carved reliefs.
  • Explore the crypt beneath the church to discover its ancient Roman origins.
  • If visiting as a group, remember to make a reservation in advance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Tuscania, the Church of San Pietro is located approximately 1.5 km away. The walk is mostly uphill, taking you through the historic streets of Tuscania and offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Follow the signs towards 'Chiesa di San Pietro'. Allow about 20-30 minutes for a leisurely walk.

  • Public Transport

    The local bus service, COTRAL, connects Tuscania with neighboring towns. From the bus station in Tuscania, take the bus towards Viterbo and get off at the stop closest to the Church of San Pietro. From there, it's a short walk uphill to the church. A single bus fare costs approximately €1-€3. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Tuscania, but it's best to book in advance. A taxi ride from the town center to the Church of San Pietro will take around 5-10 minutes and cost approximately €10-€15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Parking

    If driving, there is parking available near the Church of San Pietro. From Via della Lupa, there is free parking. There is also a large parking area near the walls of Tuscania on Via Pozzo Bianco, which is free at night, but costs €1 per hour during the day. From either parking area, follow the signs to the Church of San Pietro.

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Discover more about Church of San Pietro

The Church of San Pietro, situated on a hill that was once an Etruscan acropolis, stands as a testament to Tuscania's layered past. Founded in the early 8th century, it is considered one of the most important churches in the area and a prime example of Lombard-Romanesque architecture. The church served as Tuscania's cathedral until 1572. The facade, dating back to the 13th century, boasts a striking rose window adorned with mosaics and symbols of the Four Evangelists. Reliefs with elaborate carvings of plants, animals, and biblical figures add to the visual richness. Inside, the church is divided into three naves, with Roman columns and a Cosmatesque floor in the central nave reflecting different architectural periods. Low walls and benches separate the central nave from the outer ones, leading to speculation that the central nave may have functioned as a schola cantorum. Beneath the chancel lies a crypt with nine naves supported by columns, believed to have once been a Roman bath. Although an earthquake in 1971 caused the collapse of the apsidal area and the loss of a great apsidal mosaic of Christ Pantocrator, the church remains a captivating destination for those interested in history, art, and architecture. Visits are possible but reservations are required for groups.

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