Via Porta Romana in Bolsena is one of the town’s most historically significant streets, offering a glimpse into the medieval soul of this charming lakeside community in central Italy. Situated within the region of Lazio, Bolsena is known for its deep Etruscan and Roman roots, as well as for its scenic setting along the shores of Lake Bolsena. Via Porta Romana serves as a symbolic and physical link between the ancient past and the present, as it leads directly from one of the original gateways, Porta Romana, into the historic centre of the town. As the name suggests, Via Porta Romana once marked the entrance into Bolsena for travellers coming from the south, particularly from Rome.

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Via Porta Romana, click the image.

The Collegiata di Santa Cristina in Bolsena is a remarkable religious complex that stands as a testament to centuries of devotion, artistry, and architectural evolution in the heart of central Italy. Located in the picturesque lakeside town of Bolsena, in the province of Viterbo, the church is dedicated to Saint Christina, a young martyr whose legend has been central to the town’s spiritual and cultural identity since the early Christian era. The site is not only revered for its connection to the saint but also for its association with the Miracle of Bolsena, an event that played a crucial role in the institution of the Catholic Feast of Corpus Christi. The Collegiata, with its origins tracing back to the 11th century, is built over the catacombs believed to house the tomb of Saint Christina, a Roman girl martyred during the reign of Emperor Diocletian

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Collegiata di Santa Cristina, click the image.

Piazza Matteotti is the vibrant heart of Bolsena, a charming lakeside town in the Lazio region of central Italy. Located just a short walk from the shores of Lake Bolsena, this lively square serves as the main gathering place for locals and visitors alike. It is the social, cultural, and commercial centre of the town, where history and modern life come together in a uniquely Italian atmosphere. Framed by a mix of medieval buildings, Renaissance facades, and bustling cafes, Piazza Matteotti captures the essence of Bolsena’s enduring appeal: a place where the past is never far from the present. Named after Giacomo Matteotti, the Italian politician and anti-fascist martyr, the piazza has played a central role in the town’s civic life for centuries.

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Piazza Matteotti, click the image.

The Chiesa di San Salvatore in Bolsena is a hidden gem of religious and historical significance, offering a quiet yet profound glimpse into the town’s ancient Christian roots. Located in the upper part of Bolsena near the medieval Rocca Monaldeschi, this church is one of the oldest in the area and stands as a powerful symbol of continuity between the early Christian era and the medieval development of the town. Though often overshadowed by the more famous Collegiata di Santa Cristina, San Salvatore is no less important in the religious and architectural landscape of Bolsena. The origins of the church date back to the early Middle Ages, possibly as early as the 8th or 9th century, built on or near the site of earlier Roman structures.

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Chiesa di San Salvatore, click the image.

The Museo Territoriale del Lago di Bolsena is a cultural and historical treasure nestled within the walls of the Rocca Monaldeschi della Cervara, the medieval fortress that overlooks the town of Bolsena and its stunning volcanic lake. Established in the 20th century and expanded over the years, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the natural, archaeological, and historical heritage of the Lake Bolsena area. Through its diverse collections and thoughtfully curated exhibits, it serves as a gateway to understanding the rich layers of human and environmental history that have shaped this unique region of central Italy. Occupying several levels of the restored fortress, the museum is divided into thematic sections that guide visitors through a chronological and geographical journey. 

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Museo Territoriale del Lago di Bolsena, click the image.