Civitavecchia

Civitavecchia

 

Editor's Rating - 4 Stars

Civitavecchia is a difficult port to rate, because to be honest, there's not much to see in the city itself.  But the port offers good access to the Eternal City of Rome, which is full of genuine 5 star attractions (think the St Pauls, the Vatican museum, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, Bocca Della Verita and Piazza Navona to name a few).

 

Editor's Top Tip

 If you're visiting the Vatican and or Colosseum, booking online beforehands can save you literally hours in queuing.

 

Civitavecchia's Top Attractions On A Map

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Things To See

 

Forte Michelangelo

 The 16th Century fortification called Forte Michelangelo stands imposingly over the harbor.  It was commissioned by Pope Julius II and completed in 1535 by Giulano Leno.  The central tower was designed by Michelangelo. Constructed on the ruins of Roman barracks of the Imperial Fleet, the fort is made from walls over 6 metres thick.

 

Roman Harbor And Lighthouse

 The Roman-era port is now used as a fishing boat harbor, but the lighthouse and some atmospheric ruins remain.

 

Il Pirgo

 Il Pirgo is a small pier that leads to a man-made island just offshore from the main seafront. It was once the most popular bathing establishment in the whole of Italy, and informative signage along the promenade chronicles its glory times..

 

Medieval Town

On 14th May 1943 two squadrons of B17 Flying Fortress heavy-bombers heralded the start of a devestating bombing campaign on Civitavecchia.  Nearly all of the historical center of the city was flattened.  Today there's a very small area around Piazza Leandra remaining, with the gatehouse of Archetto as an attractive focal point. 

 

Cruise Information

 

Cruise selection guide CIvitavecchia Cruises.