Necropolis of Norchia Trek: Historical Journey Through Italy's Little Petra from Rome
5.0
2 Ratings
Rome
Embark on a historical journey through Italy's Little Petra, the Necropolis of Norchia. Explore majestic rock tombs from the Etruscan era and hike through a deep canyon and lush forest.
Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Rome - Departure from one of the pick-up points chosen by the Travellers.
    Once picked up, we will begin the journey with the transfer (8-seater van) to the point where the excursion will begin.
  • Aurelia - We will travel along the Via Aurelia for a long stretch to the north. Travelers will admire the beauty of the main ancient Roman Via Consolare between the green Tolfa Mountains and the Lazio coast bathed by the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Tolfa - We will skirt the green Monti della Tolfa formerly Maremma Laziale
  • Civitavecchia - Along the coast it will be possible to admire the Port City of Civitavecchia.
  • Monte Romano - We will pass through the typical village of Monte Romano to reach the final destination of Norchia.
  • Necropoli di Norchia - Norchia is an extraordinary site, wild and grand, almost abandoned, yet impressive! Called “The Little Italian Petra” due to the presence of majestic rock tombs from the Etruscan era, the ancient Orclae (Norchia) was a rich city that was part of the powerful Etruscan capital Tarquinia. Our adventure will start from the exploration of the necropolis, descending into the deep canyon of the Acqualta river, and then going up through the woods to the Etruscan-Roman acropolis which in the Middle Ages was the site of the 12th century Di Vico castle. A.D. The traces of the medieval city are still jealously guarded by a luxuriant forest. The importance of Norchia was given by its strategic position in control of the ancient “Via Clodia” which connected Rome with Tuscany near Grosseto and Monte Argentario and which we will be able to explore by fording the river which will increase the sense of adventure of this unique trip! Expected a packed lunch with typical products during the excursion.
  • Rome - Return to Rome or to the Travelers pick-up point
What's Included
  • Lunch included
  • Entrance ticket to the archaeological site
  • Civil Liability Insurance
  • Tea and coffee available
  • Free parking
What's Not Included
  • Trekking shoes, backpacks and suitable outdoor clothes are not included
Additional Information

Norchia, often referred to as ‘The Little Italian Petra’, is a remarkable yet largely neglected site of immense grandeur. It boasts a rich heritage from the Etruscan age, including magnificent rock-hewn tombs. Norchia, originally known as Orclae by the Etruscans, was a city of wealth under the powerful Etruscan capital Tarchna, now known as Tarquinia. Although it’s habitation began in the 3rd-4th century BC, its origin dates back significantly further into prehistory. Our journey begins with the exploration of the necropolis, heading further into the profound Acqualta river canyon, ascending through the forest to the Etruscan-Roman acropolis, which was the location of Di Vico castle in the 12th century A.D. The remnants of the medieval city are still preserved within the verdant forest. Dominating the ancient ‘Via Clodia’, a road carved entirely into tuff for over 400 meters, now called ‘Cava Buia’, we will relish in its exploration! A specially prepared meal using local produce will be provided by the Guide.

  • 7km walk
  • It is mandatory to have suitable outdoor clothing and trekking shoes with you
Location
Rome
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(2 Ratings)
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Hildemariet2016
Mar 26, 2024
Exciting, wonderful and very enjoyable - Fantastic trip in an area that is hidden from most tourists, but which is like a journey 2500 years back in time. The most unique thing about this tour is that it combines going out into nature in places where people rarely go and at the same time discovering and investigating ancient tombs, temples, settlements and the fanatical Via Claudia carved into the rock. A rare trip that is highly recommended. Edoardo is very knowledgeable, professional and a warm and pleasant guide.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Remingtonlane
Oct 13, 2023
Pure adventure - My husband and I just returned from a two week trip throughout Italy and a few other places but I must say this off the beaten path excursion was by far was our most memorable unexpected experience. You start off in the middle of nowhere but you end up in an untamed civilization from the past. No crowds basically no people just pure adventure. If you want something unique and special you can’t go wrong.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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minimum 2 guests
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up to 8 guests
2 Adult
June 2024
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