Civita di Bagnoregio: Visit a Dying Hilltop Town in Italy

2,500 years ago, the Etruscans founded an isolated, rugged hilltop town in the Lazio
region which eventually became known as Civita di Bagnoregio. Due to its remote
location, the fortunes of Civita di Bagnoregio have ebbed and flowed through the
centuries. In the 21 st century, the permanent population of the village has teeterd
between 12-16 residents.

Civita di Bagnoregio may be known as a dying town because of its fragmented
foundation and precarious placement atop a steep hill, but the sweeping views of the
surrounding badlands that are visible from the town square ensure that every person
who sets foot there is happy they made the journey.

A winding pedestrian bridge is the only way to access Civita di Bagnoregio. On rare
occasions, bicycles and mopeds are allowed on the bridge to transport supplies.
Thanks to several centuries of earthquakes, the ground beyond the pedestrian bridge
can be quite uneven, so it is best to wear sturdy shoes.

Civita di Bagnoregio is home to a striking assortment of well-preserved architecture—
some of which dates all the way back to the time of the Etruscans. Visitors can walk
beneath towering archways and explore cobblestone streets lined with vibrant potted
flowers, creeping vines, and an abundance of stray cats who spend their days reclining
in the sunshine.

Travelers can sip on a glass of regional wine or a piping hot espresso from one of Civita
di Bagnoregio’s charming eateries—which are lined with antiques such as an olive
press from the Renaissance era.

In an effort to curb overtourism, Civita di Bagnoregio does charge a small entry fee to
gain access to the pedestrian footbridge. Italy is home to countless hilltop towns, but it
is the sweeping view from beyond Civita di Bagnoregio’s clay walls that truly sets it
apart. Walking Civita di Bagnoregio’s narrow streets while considering how ancient
people were able to construct a rough-hewn settlement thousands of feet high in such
an unforgiving environment is pretty incredible. For more historical context, visit the official
Italy Tourism Authority.

The nearby town of Orvieto offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views.
The Pietra Campana Italian Villa has a heated swimming pool that offers a striking view
of Civita di Bagnoregio and the surrounding badlands.

Don’t let Civita di Bagnoregio’s reputation as a dying town stop you from visiting. The
high elevation will allow you to take a peaceful stroll back in time punctuated by views of
some of the most rugged terrain in Italy.