From Civitavecchia: the Dying City and Monster Park Tour

Exploring the captivating hilltop town of Civita di Bagnoregio and the whimsical Monster Park in Bomarzo offers a unique blend of natural and man-made wonders. Visitors are transported to a world of timeless charm and imaginative fantasy as they venture through the precarious ‘dying city’ and marvel at the fantastical stone sculptures that bring the realm of dreams to life. This tour promises to be an unforgettable journey, revealing the enchanting beauty and precarious nature of these remarkable Italian destinations. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this enchanting exploration?

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Tours In Civitavecchia.

Key Points

1. The tour offers a captivating exploration of Civita di Bagnoregio, the ‘dying city,’ and the Monster Park in Bomarzo.
2. Guests are picked up from the Civitavecchia area and transported to the sites, with round-trip transfer arrangements handled by the tour provider.
3. In Civita di Bagnoregio, visitors cross a 300-meter bridge and wander through the charming old houses and narrow streets of the hilltop town.
4. The tour also includes a visit to the Monster Park in Bomarzo, also known as the ‘Sacred Wood,’ featuring fantastical stone sculptures.
5. The tour covers entry fees and lasts between 7.5 to 8.5 hours, providing a comprehensive experience of these unique and captivating destinations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour provides visitors with a captivating exploration of Civita di Bagnoregio, the ‘dying city,’ and the enchanting Monster Park in Bomarzo.

It’s a walking tour through the hilltop city of Civita di Bagnoregio, which is slowly falling away. Visitors will cross the 300-meter bridge connecting the city to the outside world and wander its charming old houses and narrow streets.

The tour also includes a visit to the Monster Park in Bomarzo, also known as the ‘Sacred Wood.’ Here, they’ll discover the park’s eccentric wood blocks sculpted into figures of monsters, dragons, and mythological subjects.

The tour covers entry fees and lasts between 7.5 to 8.5 hours.

Pickup and Transportation

Around 8:50 AM, guests are picked up from the Civitavecchia area (with a 5-10 minute variance due to traffic).

At the Civitavecchia Port, the meeting point is Largo della Pace, the port’s information point, where the round-trip transfer to Bagnoregio and Bomarzo begins.

The tour provider arranges the transportation, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey for participants.

Guests don’t need to worry about navigating the roads or finding their way, as the driver handles all the logistics.

This pickup and transportation service allows the tour to run smoothly, allowing guests to focus on the highlights of the day’s itinerary without the hassle of arranging their own transportation.

Exploring Civita Di Bagnoregio

As the tour group crosses the 300-meter bridge, they find themselves immersed in the captivating hilltop town of Civita di Bagnoregio, aptly nicknamed the ‘dying city‘ due to the slow erosion of its foundations.

The charming village, with its old houses, narrow streets, and breathtaking landscapes, feels like a step back in time. Visitors are awed by the delicate balance between the town’s precarious position and its well-preserved medieval character.

The group meanders through the winding alleys, marveling at the architectural details and the stunning vistas that unfold at every turn. Civita di Bagnoregio’s unique blend of natural and man-made wonders makes it a truly enchanting and thought-provoking destination.

The Dying City

Civita di Bagnoregio’s precarious position atop a crumbling plateau has earned it the moniker of the ‘dying city’, as the town’s foundations steadily erode over time.

This once-thriving hilltop settlement is now connected to the outside world by a narrow 300-meter bridge, as the surrounding cliffs continue to crumble away.

Despite the looming threat of collapse, Civita remains a charming and picturesque destination, with its narrow streets, old houses, and stunning vistas.

Visitors can stroll through the village, marveling at its timeless beauty and the resilience of its residents, who fight to preserve this unique and fragile community against the relentless forces of nature.

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Visiting Monster Park

After exploring the ‘dying city’ of Civita di Bagnoregio, visitors can venture to the nearby Monster Park in Bomarzo.

Designed in the 16th century by Prince Vicino Orsini and architect Pirro Ligorio, this eccentric outdoor sculpture garden features an array of fantastical creatures carved from stone.

Visitors will marvel at the park’s mythological figures, including dragons, monsters, and other supernatural beings. The towering sculptures are scattered throughout the picturesque landscape, creating an immersive, almost surreal experience.

From the famous ‘Mouth of Hell‘ to the enigmatic ‘Fallen Giant,’ the Monster Park offers a truly unique and unforgettable glimpse into the imagination of its Renaissance-era creators.

Sacred Wood of Bomarzo

The Sacred Wood of Bomarzo, also known as the Monster Park, offers visitors a truly unique and immersive experience.

Designed in the 16th century by Prince Vicino Orsini and architect Pirro Ligorio, this eccentric outdoor sculpture garden features an array of fantastical creatures carved from stone.

Visitors can wander through the park, marveling at the larger-than-life sculptures of monsters, dragons, and mythological figures that dot the landscape.

The park’s whimsical and surreal atmosphere transports guests to a world of fantasy and imagination.

With its unexpected and sometimes unsettling sculptures, the Sacred Wood of Bomarzo is a must-see destination for anyone seeking a truly one-of-a-kind adventure.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, all necessary entry tickets, a professional driver, and a knowledgeable guide to lead the way.

However, lunch and tips aren’t covered as part of the package.

Participants will be picked up from the Civitavecchia area around 8:50 AM and transported to the hilltop town of Civita di Bagnoregio and the Monster Park in Bomarzo.

The guide will provide in-depth commentary about the ‘dying city’ of Civita and the eccentric sculptures in the ‘Sacred Wood’ of Bomarzo.

After the tour, guests will be dropped off back at the Civitavecchia Port, ready to continue their Italian adventure.

Preparing for the Tour

To make the most of this guided tour, it’s important to come prepared. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection, as much of the tour takes place outdoors. Plus, it’s recommended to have a small amount of cash on hand for any incidental expenses or local purchases along the way.

During the tour, visitors will explore the unique hilltop town of Civita di Bagnoregio and the whimsical Monster Park in Bomarzo. Given the uneven terrain and nature of the sites, a moderate level of physical fitness is advised.

Staying hydrated and bringing snacks can also help ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience throughout the day-long excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks on the Tour?

While the tour does not provide lunch, guests are welcome to bring their own food and snacks to enjoy during the day. This allows travelers to customize their experience and sustain their energy throughout the excursion.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The tour can accommodate individuals with mobility issues, though the terrain in Civita di Bagnoregio may be challenging. The Monster Park in Bomarzo has paved paths and accessible areas. Guests should discuss any mobility concerns with the tour provider prior to booking.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos throughout the tour. The tour provides ample opportunities to capture the unique landscapes, historic architecture, and eccentric sculptures at both Civita di Bagnoregio and the Monster Park in Bomarzo.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Souvenirs at the Sites?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs at both Civita di Bagnoregio and the Monster Park in Bomarzo. Visitors can browse local shops and artisan stalls for unique handmade items, crafts, and mementos to commemorate their visit.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Locations?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional locations. The tour provider may offer options to add visits to nearby towns, wineries, or other attractions, but these would incur additional costs and extend the overall tour duration.

Recap

This captivating tour offers a unique blend of natural and man-made wonders.

Visitors will be immersed in the enchanting hilltop town of Civita di Bagnoregio, the ‘dying city‘ perched atop a crumbling plateau, before venturing to the nearby ‘Sacred Wood’ to marvel at the fantastical stone sculptures of the Monster Park.

This tour transports guests to a world of timeless charm and imaginative wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: