About the Viterbo, Italy Program
The Viterbo program is a USAC specialty program. Learn more about on-site program elements and the city itself below.
About Viterbo
- Distance from Rome: 50 miles
- Distance from Florence: 180 miles
Viterbo is a small medieval city with a college town vibe, located in central Italy and known for its historical, artistic, and monumental legacies. Protected by a medieval wall, Viterbo's fountains, palaces, and churches all exemplify its glorious and eventful heritage of art and culture. It is about two and a half hours from Rome and three hours from Florence (by train), with easy connections to the coast and mountain regions. Viterbo residents have retained the charm and leisurely quality of life of days gone by. They still retain the tradition of closing from 1 pm to 4 pm to enjoy a relaxing lunch at home with family. Each Saturday, there is an outdoor market in the main piazza where people browse and shop for clothes and houseware items. Fresh produce from local farms is also sold every morning in outdoor markets around town. Viterbese cuisine is some of the best in Italy thanks to the city's green surroundings, and the "art" of entertaining. Two local dishes not to miss are Lombrichelli alla Viterbese and Acquacotta. Be sure to visit the Sagra festivals throughout the summer where one can sample pasta, gnocchi, and more.