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Etruscan Pyramid of Bomarzo: Ancient Altar in a Sacred Grove

Uncover the mysteries of the Etruscan Pyramid of Bomarzo, an ancient altar hidden in the sacred forests of Tuscia. A journey through history and nature.

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Hidden in the lush hills near Bomarzo, Italy, the Etruscan Pyramid is an enigmatic archaeological site dating back to the 7th century BC. This unique monument, possibly a sacrificial altar, offers a blend of history, nature, and mystery, inviting visitors to explore its ancient carvings and surrounding woodlands.

A brief summary to Etruscan Pyramid of Bomarzo

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy trekking shoes due to the steep and uneven terrain on the path leading to the pyramid.
  • Follow the red arrows marked on trees to stay on the correct path.
  • Consider using a hiking app like Komoot for accurate navigation, as maps may not be precise.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Parco dei Mostri (Park of Monsters) for a full day of exploration.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the closest parking area, follow the wide footpath. Keep right along the path, following signs towards the pyramid. Look for red arrows marked on trees to guide you. The walk is approximately 1.5 km and takes about 30-40 minutes. Note that the terrain can be steep and uneven, so wear appropriate footwear.

  • Public Transport

    From Viterbo, take a COTRAL bus to Bomarzo. From the bus stop in Bomarzo (Piazza Garibaldi or Via Cavour), walk downhill for about 20 minutes to reach the beginning of the trail to the Etruscan Pyramid. Follow the signs and red arrows along the path. Bus tickets cost approximately €2-€4.

  • Taxi

    From the Attigliano-Bomarzo train station, a taxi to Bomarzo costs approximately €14-€20. Negotiate the price before starting the journey. From Bomarzo town center, follow the walking directions to the Etruscan Pyramid.

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Discover more about Etruscan Pyramid of Bomarzo

Nestled within the dense forests of Tuscia, near Bomarzo, the Etruscan Pyramid emerges as a captivating testament to the ancient Etruscan civilization. Rediscovered in recent decades, this monumental, pyramid-shaped altar is believed to date back to the 7th or 6th centuries BC. Carved from a large peperino rock, a gray volcanic stone typical of the Cimini Mountains, the structure stands approximately 9 meters high and 16 meters long, featuring 28 steps leading to a main altar. The pyramid's original purpose remains a subject of debate, with theories suggesting it served as a sacrificial altar, a place of worship, an astronomical observatory, or even a burial site. The presence of channels and grooves carved into the stone hints at ritualistic practices, possibly involving animal sacrifices. Known locally as the "Sasso del Predicatore" (Preacher's Stone), the site exudes an aura of mystery and spirituality. Surrounded by a wealth of Etruscan inscriptions, tombs, and medieval ruins, the Etruscan Pyramid is part of a larger "Sacred Forest". Nearby, visitors can find the "Finestraccia" (Ugly Window), an ancient Etruscan tomb that later served as a dwelling. Exploring the area requires a hike through wooded paths, adding an element of adventure to the experience. The trails, while not always well-marked, offer a chance to connect with nature and discover the hidden remnants of a fascinating past.

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