Lazio Travel Guide

Sutri

Sutri

Ancient town with a remarkable Roman amphitheater carved from tufa rock

Sutri is a fascinating small town with a rich history dating back to Etruscan times. Located along the ancient Via Cassia, it was an important strategic outpost first for the Etruscans and later for the Romans, who conquered it in 383 BC.

The town's most remarkable monument is the Roman Amphitheater, entirely carved out of tufa rock in the 1st century AD. This extraordinary structure, excavated between 1835 and 1838, could hold up to 9,000 spectators and represents a unique example of Roman architecture. Unlike most amphitheaters that were built up from the ground, Sutri's was created by hollowing out the volcanic rock, resulting in a perfectly preserved arena.

Another fascinating site is the Mithraeum, a cave that served as a place of worship for the cult of Mithras during Roman times, was later converted into the Church of Madonna del Parto, and still displays frescoes from different historical periods. This site exemplifies the layering of religions and cultures that characterizes much of Italy's heritage.

The historic center of Sutri preserves its medieval character with narrow streets, stone buildings, and the Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The town is surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the Parco Naturale Regionale dell'Antichissima Città di Sutri, featuring lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and ancient Etruscan rock-cut tombs.

Throughout its history, Sutri has been a witness to key historical events, including the meeting between King Liutprand and Pope Gregory II in 728 AD, which led to the donation of the town to the Papal States, marking the beginning of the Church's temporal power.

Today, Sutri offers visitors a journey through multiple layers of Italian history, from Etruscan origins through Roman splendor and medieval developments, all in a charming setting of natural beauty.

Gallery

Sutri - Image 1
Sutri - Image 2
Sutri - Image 3

Highlights

  • 1
    Roman Amphitheater - Remarkable structure entirely carved from tufa rock
  • 2
    Mithraeum/Church of Madonna del Parto - Ancient cave with layers of religious history
  • 3
    Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta - Romanesque church in the town center
  • 4
    Etruscan Necropolis - Ancient rock-cut tombs in the surrounding park
  • 5
    Medieval Town Center - With narrow streets and historic buildings

Location

Sutri is located at coordinates: 42.2425, 12.2286

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