Bomarzo is a popular place to visit in the northern Lazio region and is famous for its magical sculpture park. This picturesque town sits at the base of Mount Cimino, surrounded by the orchard-clad valleys of the Tiber River valley. Bomarzo began as Polimartium (the town of Mars), which suggests Etruscan and Roman origins.
The town is loosely split between the historic centre, to the north, and an urbanized, residential area to the south. Start by exploring the narrow lanes of the old town, constructed in the 1500s by Vicino Orsini and dominated by Palazzo Orsini. The walls of this former castle and prison are adorned with paintings from the school of Pietro da Cortona. See Renaissance frescoes and detailed sculptures at the Church of Santa Maria of Assunta.
Walk to the town’s modern district and pause on the way to admire views of the encompassing countryside. Find a selection of cafés, pizzerias and trattorias in addition to guesthouses and hotels. A short walk from here is Piramide di Bomarzo, a remnant of the Etruscan civilization.
Visit the Parco dei Mostri (Park of Monsters) for some family-friendly entertainment. This well-maintained garden, set below the old town, is home to dozens of beguiling sculptures, statues and monuments. Spot a leaning house, a temple, fountains and mythological creatures. Prince Vicino Orsini commissioned the park in 1552 as a memorial to his late wife.
Go to nearby Reserva Naturale Monte Casoli di Bomarzo to enjoy hiking amid a landscape of ravines and woodland. Discover ancient caves and tombs, which provide archaeological evidence of Etruscan life.
Situated about 60 miles (96 kilometres) northwest of Rome, Bomarzo is a great destination to include on a driving tour of the province of Viterbo. Visit other acclaimed gardens in the province, including Bagnaia’s Villa Lante and Caprarola’s Villa Farnese. Swim in crystal-clear water, try watersports and relax on volcanic sand beaches at Lake Bolsena.
