Parigi, Amsterdam, Berlin and Rome are among the most beautiful cities that exist and always will be. But the heart of Europe is often found in its small towns, not only in its bustling capitals. From the islands of the Mediterranean to the castle complexes of Bohemia, from the heart of Transylvania to the hills of the English Cotswolds, there are gems that demonstrate how “small” can be enormously beautiful.
Bolsena among the ten most beautiful small towns in Europe
We know it well in Italy and, in fact, without too much surprise, in the ranking made by Forbes of the ten most beautiful small cities in Europe there is also an Italian one: Bolsena, in the Viterbo area, for the US magazine it is a unique little pearl of its kind. The recognition is given for the work of environmental protection, enhancement of history and traditions and for having defended and preserved the territory.
The charm of Tuscany without the crowds
«This city of northern Lazio, in the region of Viterbo, it has much of the charm of Tuscany but less of the crowds – writes in the Forbes motivation – It has a well-preserved historic center and impressive churches, palaces and squares, and the nearby Lago di Bolsena is the largest volcanic lake in Europegreat for swimming and a constant supply of freshwater fish.’
Lake Bolsena is the largest volcanic lake in Europe. (Getty Images)
The other nine towns in the standings
With regard to the other nine townsappear: Bibury in England, Bonifacio in France, Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, Cochem in Germany, Ericeira in Portugal, Hall in Tirol in Austria, Reine in Norway, Ronda in Spain and Sibiu in Romania.
The beauties of Bolsena
Bolsena lying on the shores of Lake Bolsena, the largest volcanic lake in Europe, is certainly worth a visit. And that’s right the lake with its crystal clear waters and serene surroundings where it is possible to take boat trips, swim or simply relax along its banks, one of the main attractions of the town.
But not only that, because Bolsena it is also rich in history and culture. The historic center of the town is characterized by cobbled streets, charming squares, ancient buildings and the remains of medieval walls. There Church of Santa Cristinawith its Gothic architecture, and the Monaldeschi Castle are just some of the cultural attractions to explore. In the surroundings, then, small villages and picturesque towns such as the medieval village of Civita di Bagnoregio, known as “The City That Is Dying”, fascinating and unique in its kind, certainly deserve a visit.
Certainly culture, but also flavours: those of the local cuisine. A gastronomic themed excursion between Civita di Bagnoregio and Lake Bolsena will lead to the discovery of the typical recipes of the area. Meat-based dishes accompanied by raw materials, cheeses and legumes, the result of local farming and farming. Not to mention the wines and oils produced on the hills around Lake Bolsena.
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