Discover Tarquinia: An Underrated Cultural Gem Near Rome

Feeling Rome Tourist Burnout? Take the Train to Authentic Tarquinia

Italy is a cherished luxury travel destination, perhaps excessively so, packing Rome with hordes of tourists. The antidote is close by: the small city of Tarquinia, northwest of Rome on Italy’s railroad system, Trenitalia. This destination is perfect for a day trip by train or car and offers visitors a chance to stay for a night or two.

Tarquinia is Haunting and Unforgettable

As close as Tarquinia is to Rome, it feels like another world. This is the realm of genuine, everyday small-town Italy. In Tarquinia, the pace is serene and the experience authentic. The town’s off-the-beaten-path charm would alone make it an appealing travel destination for those seeking real places. However, Tarquinia has so much more to offer visitors. Continue reading for top reasons to add Tarquinia to your Italian itinerary.

Tarquinia’s City of the Dead: Monterozzi Necropolis

Tarquinia’s Lure: Its Necropoli, Cities of the Dead

The Etruscans celebrated death as another stage of life. Their expansive cemeteries, scattered in and around Tarquinia, have remarkably survived. These Necropoli (“cities of the dead”) are like landscaped neighborhoods, featuring streets, trees, walking paths, benches, and views.

One of the highlights is Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a 3,000-year-old cemetery just a short walk from the piazza.

Making Room for the Newly Departed

Inside Monterozzi are numerous elaborate family tombs, furnished with cot-like benches for new arrivals. Their walls are beautifully painted with intricate scenes that reflect the family’s interests: sports, hunting, and festivities filled with music and dancing. When a long-lost relative needed to be interred, the family would hold a joyous wake as a way to embrace life and the hereafter.

The Real Italy Is in Tarquinia

The locals in Tarquinia warmly welcome every visitor, ensuring that you feel valued and appreciated. Here, you can observe authentic Italian life, not the scripted tourist experience. As you stroll through the winding Renaissance-era streets or relax in the piazza, you’re bound to witness vibrant scenes that capture the essence of Italian culture.

Where to Stay in Tarquinia

Tarquinia’s Incredible History

Tarquinia is a historic location filled with significant artifacts. Once known as Tarchuna, it was the largest city in the Etruscan empire, Etruria, predating Rome. Its rich copper and iron mines fostered trade and prosperity. However, the Romans dethroned the last Etruscan king, Lucius Tarquinius Superbus, in 509 BC, thus establishing the Roman Republic.

Tarquinia’s Delicious Dining (and Beloved Pizzeria)

Tarquinia boasts an impressive array of authentic Italian dining options. Visitors can enjoy local dishes and house-made pasta at many restaurants.

One Restaurant You Can’t Miss: Ambaradam

Ambaradam serves heartfelt Italian cuisine in a historic grotto-like indoor space or outdoors in Tarquinia’s central Piazza Cavour. The restaurant attracts a varied clientele, from luxury travelers to families introducing their children to traditional pasta.

Dining at Ambaradam will reward you with a genuine local experience, complete with generous portions and top-notch service. The Tarquinia people-watching is also exceptional. Don’t forget to try the delectable seafood linguine!

The Pizzeria You Were Hoping to Find Is Right Here

When you’re near Caprarola, you must dine at Pizzeria 2 Gallozzi. This beloved pizzeria is owned by the Gallozzi brothers and resembles a friendly pub with an expansive selection of beers.

The Pizza that Captivated Italy

At Pizzeria 2 Gallozzi, you can savor award-winning pizzas baked in a massive, multi-level wood-fired oven. The signature pizza, a four-cheese creation, showcases the nutty flavor of fontina and creamy mushrooms. The menu offers a variety of thin-crust pies topped with everything from classic prosciutto to arugula and even a dessert pizza featuring Nutella and chestnuts, capped off with a complimentary Limoncello.