Bassano Romano, Italian comune
Bassano Romano is a small hilltop town in the Province of Viterbo surrounded by rolling countryside with narrow stone streets and old brick buildings. The main attractions are the Palazzo Giustiniani, a former castle transformed into a noble residence, and a church on the hilltop, both containing artworks by renowned sculptors and painters.
The town grew through the influence of the Giustiniani family, who owned land there and built a castle and church that became important landmarks. These structures attracted renowned artists including Michelangelo and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who contributed to the artistic legacy that remains on display today.
The Palazzo Giustiniani and the nearby church form the heart of the town, showing how a single family shaped this place for centuries. Visitors can see how the architecture and artworks still define the character and identity of the community today.
The town is located about 55 miles (90 kilometers) north of Rome and is easily accessible by car with clear roads leading into the center. The main attractions are within walking distance in the town center, though the hilly terrain and narrow streets require comfortable footwear.
A Christ statue in the church has an unusual history: Michelangelo began sculpting it but stopped when he spotted a black vein in the marble's cheek. The family later commissioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini to complete the work, which was finished in 1644.
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