Corchiano

Located in the province of Viterbo, that of Corchiano is a small village of only 3701 inhabitants surrounded by the Cimini Mountains. Ventured through the narrow streets of this village you can immediately take a dip in its atmosphere halfway between magical and enchanting. Not far away is the magnificent lake of Vico as well as the Fratta river, which has become a natural monument.

But it is not only this that makes Corchiano a very special village, but also the character of its buildings. The urbanistic aspect that enhances this urban centre has its own strong personality that makes it special. Not by chance, it is one of those places where you can admire exclusive views of the surrounding nature. Without forgetting the character of its inhabitants: everyone is always happy to receive visits and explain to guests the legends that decorate the streets of this village.

Visiting it you will also have the opportunity to discover the various craft shops, as in many other villages. This characteristic is perfectly connected to the medieval layout of the town, characterized by a series of very narrow and winding alleys to which are added several small squares. Walking through them, it may seem to you that moving around inside Corchiano is quite difficult. However, with time you will surely be able to appreciate that feeling of fascinating silence that only a few villages can provide.

Historical notes
In fact, the history of this village is closely linked to the Italian Middle Ages. Until that time Corchiano lived in a period of peace and prosperity, which ended with the invasion of the Barbarians to the detriment of Rome by plundering the entire surrounding area. The Cimini Mountains served in that period to the inhabitants of the village to host them. Subsequently, the urban structure was enlarged to bring the village to its modern appearance.

In the course of time Corchiano passed of ownership several times. So, when it was dominated by Captain Ranieri di Farolfo, it had the name of Hortiano. Subsequently, other noble families did not take possession, including the Di Vicino and Orsini families who dominated the village until 1472. Subsequently, Corchiano became part of the Dukedom of Castro by order of Paolo III Farnese. This dukedom was then given to Pier Luigi Farnese.

The Farnese family built their own brand new fortress in Corchiano. The latter was, unfortunately, destroyed during the ruin of Castro in 1649 and in 1979 it was decided to completely demolish it. Currently you can only find a few ruins. In the following period Corchiano became property of the Church and some other seigniories to be first occupied by French troops in 1798 and then by the Apostolic Chamber, until 1870.

What to see in Corchiano
Considering also the permanence of Corchiano under the direct dominion of the Church, it is not surprising to find here numerous religious architectures. This urban center, in fact, is literally dominated by churches and you should visit at least a part of them to admire them in all their beauty.

Among the best churches to visit in Corchiano stands out that of Sant'Antonio, a church built in perfect Romanesque style with an excellent tufa material. It grew over time and hides behind it a quite particular history. Don't forget the church of San Biagio, built around the second half of 1400. Inside is housed an incredible cycle of frescoes painted around the year 1468. The exterior of the Church of San Biagio is also of considerable beauty. Not far away stands the Church of Sant'Egidio, built in the 16th century and later remodelled. It is supposed to have more ancient (and even curious) roots. Among the other churches to visit in Corchiano stands out that of the Madonna delle Grazie, made entirely of rough stone. Inside you will find a majestic altar built in the typical baroque style.

The many churches, however, represent only a small part of all the wonders that you can find in Corchiano. Here, in fact, you can also find the Forre di Corchiano, a magnificent natural place able to give you unique satisfaction. This gorge has such an evocative aspect that it will leave anyone speechless. Not far away, moreover, stands out the Natural Monument Pian Sant'Angelo. It is a completely protected natural area, born as a WWF oasis in Italy and later grown up. Nowadays it occupies an area of 254.00 hectares. Here you will find a wide range of different centuries-old trees in what is an area of remarkable beauty.

Coming to Corchiano during Christmas time you can also admire its living Nativity scene. The latter has been made since 1969 until today by a local association and is a real spectacle worth living.