Ever wonder who came before the Romans? The Etruscans, that's who. They fought and lost to the Romans, who (thankfully) didn't erase all traces of their former enemies. Luckily for us, that means that towns like Tarquinia still exist. That also means that the architectural wonders and beautiful art of the Etruscans still exist, too.

Hundreds of Etruscan necropoli with intact wall paintings are buried underground. Many have been excavated; the National Museum holds many of their findings. Hire a guide and spend your day underground, if you can. The Tomb of the Augurs is particularly well-known for it's depictions of Etrucan sports. If you finish early, there are plenty of more modern (well, relatively) sights to see. A 16th century Cathedral with intact frescoes, medieval towers, the Communal Palace, and half-dozen churches each with incredible art (statues, paintings, stained-glass windows...you get the idea).

Come to Tarquinia if you want a break from the Italian countryside or if you just want to see some really old stuff.

Written by  Robert Evans.

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