Viterbo, Medieval commune in Lazio, Italy
Viterbo is a commune in the Province of Viterbo in Lazio, sitting roughly 50 miles (80 kilometers) north of Rome. The town includes the walled center plus surrounding villages and countryside that belong to the administrative area.
The settlement grew on the site of an Etruscan town and reached its political peak in the 13th century as a refuge for popes fleeing Rome. Several conclaves took place here, including the longest papal election in history, which lasted nearly three years.
Residents of Viterbo maintain the tradition of the Macchina di Santa Rosa, carrying a 30-meter illuminated tower through the city streets each September.
The town center can be explored on foot, though some lanes in the old quarter climb steeply and have uneven paving. The thermal springs on the edge of town are reachable by car or bus and offer natural pools for bathing.
The longest conclave in church history began in 1268 and ended only after 1006 days, when townspeople removed the roof of the papal palace to force the cardinals to make a decision. This unusual measure eventually led to the election of Gregory X and is considered a turning point for later conclave rules.
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