Tuscania

Tuscania, known as Toscanella until the late 19th century, is a town and comune in Viterbo province, Lazio, Italy. Its founding is attributed to Aeneas' son Ascanius or Hercules' son Tusco. Evidence of human activity dates back to the Neolithic era, with the city proper likely established by the 7th century BC when it was fortified on St. Peter's Hill.

Strategically situated, Tuscania became a key Etruscan center and later a maritime trade hub via Regas port. It transitioned peacefully into Roman control, becoming a municipium in 88 BC. After the fall of Rome, it fell to Lombards, then became part of the Papal States in the 6th century AD.

In the Middle Ages, Tuscania was a fief under various rulers and later gained autonomy as a free commune. It faced decline after submission to Rome in the early 14th century, rechristened Tuscanella. It recovered under Papal control, with Cardinal Albornoz restoring it in 1354.

In modern times, the town was devastated by French troops in 1495 and experienced a prolonged decline until Italian unification in 1870. The 19th century saw exploration of Etruscan tombs by the Campanari family, leading to an exhibition in London.

Notable landmarks include the Church of San Pietro (begun in 739), the Etruscan Museum with sarcophagi, and other historical sites like the Tower of Lavello, Fontana delle Sette Cannelle, and remnants of Via Clodia.