San Lorenzo Nuovo: A baroque village between historia and beauty

San Lorenzo Nuovo is a charming village located in Lazio, specifically in the province of Viterbo. Built on a rise overlooking Lake Bolsena, this small town, of Etruscan and Roman origin, is distinguished by its Baroque historic center and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The hamlet, as its name suggests, is a relatively recent creation. San Lorenzo Nuovo was in fact built in the late 18th century, when the old village of San Lorenzo delle Grotte was evacuated due to unsanitary and unhealthy conditions. The decision to build a new village was made by Pope Clement XIV, and the project was entrusted to Spanish architect Francisco Navone.

The result is a village of rare beauty, characterized by an octagonal plan and a strictly geometric urban structure, typical of Baroque architecture. The central square, Europe Square, is a perfect example of this structure, with its symmetrical facades facing a large open space.

In the center of the square is the Church of San Lorenzo Martire, also from the Baroque period. This church is distinguished by its travertine facade and majestic bell tower. Inside, the high altar, made of polychrome marble, is a masterpiece of artistic refinement.

A short distance from the square are the remains of the so-called “Caves of San Lorenzo,” the ruins of the old village from which the present village originated. These caves, dug into the tuff, were initially inhabited by the Etruscans and later by the Romans. Today, they represent a fascinating testimony to the area’s past.

San Lorenzo Nuovo also boasts an excellent culinary tradition. The local cuisine is based on simple, wholesome ingredients, such as olive oil, fish from the lake, and porcini mushrooms, which grow in the surrounding forests. Specialties to try include “sbroscia,” a fish soup typical of Lake Bolsena, and Easter pizza, a sourdough dessert typical of the area.

The village is also surrounded by generous and varied nature, with Lake Bolsena on one side and the Volsini Mountains on the other. This landscape offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, birdwatching and fishing.

The proximity to Lake Bolsena offers the possibility of practicing various water sports, such as sailing and windsurfing, as well as pleasant walks along its shores or picnicking in its many picnic areas. The lake also hosts several events and festivals during the summer, such as the “Lake Festival,” which celebrates the area’s culture and traditions with concerts, theater performances, and tastings of local products.

Finally, San Lorenzo Nuovo’s location in the center of Tuscia makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the beauty of this region. From the Uccellina Natural Park, to the city of Orvieto, to the small villages of Pitigliano and Sorano, there are many destinations to discover nearby.

In conclusion, San Lorenzo Nuovo is a place where history, natural beauty and local traditions come together to create a unique experience. The charm of its historic center, the richness of its culinary tradition, and the beauty of the surrounding landscape make it a must-see destination for anyone wishing to discover the authentic wonders of Lazio.