Volsinii

Volsinii is an archaeological site of the ancient Etruscan settlement near Bolsena on the eastern shore of Lake Bolsena. The remains include residential buildings such as the Domus of the Paintings and Domus of the Nymphaeum, along with streets, a forum, and defensive walls.

Roman forces destroyed the original Etruscan city of Velzna in 264 BCE, causing survivors to establish a new settlement by the lake. The refounded community then developed under Roman rule into an important port town.

The name Volsinii comes from the Etruscan city Velzna, honoring the people who resettled here after losing their homeland. Walking through the remains, you see how residents organized their homes and shared spaces, revealing daily routines of centuries past.

The site is best visited on weekdays, allowing ample time to explore the different structures and pathways at a relaxed pace. Wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection, as the terrain is uneven and mostly exposed.

An underground chamber in the Domus of the Paintings preserves colorful wall frescoes from the second century BCE. These painted scenes are among the rare surviving examples of Etruscan wall art and reveal glimpses of everyday life.