Guide of Civitavecchia

Civitavecchia is a port city on the Tyrrhenian Sea near Rome. In Roman times it was known as Cento Cellae, a name that derives from the construction work carried out at that time near the port of Civitavecchia and the numerous natural inlets on its coast.

History 

The first settlements are traced back to the Etruscan period, although the city is not documented as a city until 103 AD. In medieval times the city was under the Goths and became dominated by the Byzantine Empire, who used it as a naval base in the war against the Goths. During the Byzantine reign, Civitavecchia depended on the Duke who was based in Rome until in 728, when the city came under the dominion of the Papal State. This was a dominion that lasted with until the end of the 1800s, when Nino Bixio led a large number of Italians to take over the city. Then Civitavecchia was razed to the ground by bombing in the second world war.

Places to visit

The historic center is very interesting despite the heavy bombing in the Second World War. The ancient port is an admirable architectural feat and hosts several works including the Antemurale, the Forte Michelangelo, the Rocca, the Fontana del Vanvitelli, the wall of Urban VIII, Porta Livorno and the Lazzaretto tower. Do not miss the Terme della Ficoncella, which owes its name to the fig tree that is located between the pools. The cathedral of San Francesco d'Assisi is the main church in the city and is located in the historic centre. It was built on the remains of a small Franciscan church and it has a Baroque façade.

Beaches 

The Pirgo beach in the centre of Civitavecchia is located on the city's promenade, it has been redeveloped and amenities have been added. La Frasca is a free beach that stretches for about six kilometres, it is rocky with a pine forest that provides some shade and refreshment during the hottest hours.