Private Etruscan History Tour from Civitavecchia: Tarquinia and Tuscania

Tarquinia and Tuscania are two gems of the Tuscia region in central Italy. These historic towns are perfect for an independent exploration, blending Etruscan heritage, medieval architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. Step back in time and discover the rich history of the Etruscans. Etruria was once a thriving region region of Central Italy, located in the area that covered what is now Lazio, Tuscany and Umbria. Most of what people know about Etruscan civilization comes from paintings and artifacts artifacts that have been unearthed after being buried for thousands of years. Etruscans migrated from Asia minor, spoke a language that has yet to be deciphered, and were energetic warriors and seamen. Learn all this and more on this interesting, exciting, fact-filled, private journey. With a driver at your disposal, plan your route in advance to maximize time at each site. Tarquinia and Tuscania are about 20 minutes apart. Both towns are small enough to visit in a day.

1. 1

   Civitavecchia Port

   10 min

   Your assigned driver will be readily identifiable, holding a sign bearing your name

2. 2

   Tarquinia

   1 hour

   Step into history as we explore Tarquinia, the cradle of Etruscan civilization. Wander through its medieval streets, admire noble palaces, and uncover the secrets of the famous Etruscan Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A journey through time, where ancient art and breathtaking views await.

3. 3

   Necropolis of Tarquinia

   1 hour

   The Etruscan Necropolis of Monterozzi is located over an upland east of Tarquinia (Viterbo) and counts with approximately 6,000 tombs, most of them spaces digged into the rock and surmounted by tumulus, the oldest of them dating back to the seventh century BC

4. 4

   Santa Maria di Castello

   30 min

   The splendid Romanesque Church of Saint Mary in the Castle deserves a chapter on its own. The church is situated in the oldest part of Tarquinia, where the Castrum Cargnetum was located, originating the nucleus of ancient Corneto. To reach it, you have to walk along Via di Porta Castello, cross the ancient gate with the Tower of Dante and the Tower of Matilde di Canossa in the background. A few steps to be catapulted 1000 years back! The atmosphere here is simply magical, especially at night when the streets are illuminated only by the light of the street-lamps... the ideal place for a romantic walk in history.

5. 5

   Museo Archeologico Nazionale Di Tarquinia

   2 hours

   Housed within Palazzo Vitelleschi, the National Etruscan Museum of Tarquinia is beyond doubt among the main attractions of the city. The Palazzo Vitelleschi deserves a visit for itself! Built by Cardinal Giovanni Vitelleschi between 1436 and 1439 with a design by Giovanni Dalmata, thanks to the simultaneous presence of Gothic and Renaissance elements and a true architectural masterpiece.

6. 6

   Palazzo dei Priori

   30 min

   A nice walk through the narrow streets of the Historical Center of Tarquinia.In Piazza Giacomo Matteotti where you will find the Palazzo Comunale, the monumental eighteenth-century fountain

7. 7

   Parrocchia Ss. Margherita E Martino

   15 min

   The Cathedral of Saints Margherita and Martino, built around 1260, is located in the square with the same name a few steps from Palazzo Vitelleschi and it is part of the diocese of Civitavecchia and Tarquinia. Raised to the rank of Cathedral on 5 December 1435, during the fifteenth century the cathedral was enlarged by Bishop Bartolomeo Vitelleschi then it was unfortunately destroyed in 1643 by a terrible fire.

8. 8

   Tuscania

   1 hour

   Discover Tuscania, a charming town where history and nature blend in perfect harmony. Stroll through its medieval streets, admire the stunning Basilica of San Pietro, and take in breathtaking views of the Tuscia countryside. An unforgettable journey into the soul of ancient Lazio.

9. 9

   Museo Archeologico di Tuscania

   1 hour

   Based in the Franciscan Monastery founded in 1247, adjacent to the Church of s. Maria del Riposo. The first section of the Museum was opened in 1988; consists of 4 rooms on the ground floor where exposes the funerary complex of noble Hellenistic period (IV-II sec.a.C.). Of particular importance are the funerary complex from three rock tombs of Curunas family: next to nenfro sarcophagi with lids restituenti all round the figure of the deceased, faliscan, ceramics are ceretane, vulcenti and/or tarquiniesi, and chiusine. Of particular importance in materials related to bronze or female world banquet. In 1997 were open to the public 2 upstairs rooms, one dedicated to the history of the monastery and the old centre of Tuscania, the other to the oldest testimonies from necropolis (VII century BC). Forthcoming is the opening of new exhibition sections.

10. 10

    Civitavecchia Port

    10 min

    Arrive in style at Civitavecchia Port with our expert drivers, ready to make your journey unforgettable.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.