Ronciglione — Medieval village in Tuscia on Lake Vico
Medieval alleys, volcanic nature and one of Italy's most spectacular Carnivals
Discover the villageA medieval village
in the heart of Tuscia
Ronciglione is one of the most enchanting medieval villages in the Tuscia region, overlooking Lake Vico and famous throughout Italy for its historic Carnival. A place where time seems to have stood still among cobblestone alleys, Renaissance fountains and breathtaking views of the volcanic crater. Perfect for a weekend from Rome or a holiday in Lazio discovering Italy's most beautiful villages.
Village of Villages 2023
Recognised for the quality of its historic centre and hospitality, Ronciglione is a member of the "Most Beautiful Villages of Italy" association.
Between Rome and Viterbo
Just 20 km from Viterbo and 55 km from Rome, along the Via Francigena. The ideal base to explore the Tuscia region and Lazio.
Nature and authenticity
Cobblestone alleys, stone houses, panoramic views over the Rio Vicano and direct access to the Lake Vico Nature Reserve.
“A place where time has stood still, among stones that whisper stories of centuries”
What to see
in Ronciglione
Every stone tells centuries of history. From the monumental Porta Romana to the Fountain of the Unicorns, the medieval village of Ronciglione holds an artistic and architectural heritage of rare beauty in the heart of Tuscia.
Porta Romana
A dramatic entrance to the village attributed to Vignola, introducing visitors to the medieval core with its monumental architecture.
Fountain of the Unicorns
A Renaissance fountain in sandstone with three unicorns from which water flows — one of the most photographed symbols of Ronciglione.
Upper Historic Centre
Atmospheric alleys, hidden squares, ancient dwellings and breathtaking viewpoints over the Rio Vicano valley.
Medieval Towers
Remains of the medieval defensive system with striking views over the village and the surrounding valley.
Historic Churches
Santa Maria della Provvidenza, Santa Maria della Pace, Sant'Andrea and other sacred art treasures with precious frescoes.
Casino dei Farnese
Castle and hunting lodge of the Farnese family, traces of the powerful dynasty that shaped the history of the territory.
A volcanic lake
among Italy's finest
Lake Vico is one of Italy's best-preserved volcanic lakes, the highest in altitude, surrounded by the ancient crater of the Vicano volcano. Crystal-clear waters, peaceful beaches, beech and oak forests: a natural oasis just steps from the village of Ronciglione. The Lake Vico Nature Reserve offers hiking, canoeing and birdwatching.
The Carnival of Ronciglione
among Italy's most spectacular
With Renaissance roots and rich popular involvement, the Carnival of Ronciglione is one of Italy's oldest and most spectacular. An explosion of colours, music and traditions that attracts thousands of visitors every year.
1 — 17 February 2026
Parades, processions, street food and music
Gala Parades
Grand afternoon parades of allegorical floats, costumed groups and folk bands along the main street to Piazza della Nave.
Hussar Parade
Cavalry in 19th-century costumes galloping through the village streets: one of the most iconic and spectacular moments.
Red Nose Monday
The famous Red Nose "charge", gala dinner and ball of the historic carnival society.
Festival and Street Food
Children's Grand Carnival, street performers, street food festival and live music in the square on all key days.
Shrove Tuesday
Death and testament of King Carnival, funeral procession with torchlight and departure by hot air balloon: a spectacular finale.
Book early to experience the Carnival as a protagonist
Plan your visitExperiences
not to be missed
Ronciglione is not just a village to admire, but a place to live. Here are the experiences that will make your trip to the Tuscia region unforgettable.
Sunset walk through the village
Lose yourself in the alleys of the upper historic centre when the golden sunset light ignites the ancient stones. Reach the panoramic viewpoints over the Rio Vicano for an unforgettable spectacle.
A day at Lake Vico
Hiking in the Nature Reserve among beech and oak forests, then relaxation on the peaceful lake beaches. Canoeing, birdwatching and picnics with views of the volcanic crater.
Dinner with Tuscia flavours
Savour the local produce: Cimini hazelnuts, extra virgin olive oil, chestnuts, porcini mushrooms and traditional Viterbo dishes in the village trattorias.
Excursions to nearby villages
From Ronciglione, set out to discover Sutri, Viterbo, Vitorchiano, Bomarzo with the Park of Monsters, Civita di Bagnoregio and the gardens of Villa Lante.
Tradition
at the table
The cuisine of Tuscia is a journey through the authentic flavours of the territory: genuine ingredients, recipes handed down for generations and a food and wine tradition that wins you over at the first taste.
Cimini Hazelnuts
The prized IGP hazelnuts from the Cimini Mountains, the star ingredient of local pastries and artisanal hazelnut cream.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Tuscia DOP olive oil, with a fruity and slightly spicy flavour, produced from native cultivars such as Caninese.
Porcini Mushrooms
Harvested in the Cimini forests, the star of traditional dishes such as porcini fettuccine and autumn soups.
Chestnuts and Marrons
The marrons of the Cimini Mountains, celebrated in autumn festivals and transformed into roasted chestnuts, jams and traditional sweets.