In the Middle Ages, Nepi was fought over by Lazio's most powerful families: the prefects of Vico, the Orsini, the Colonna. In 1499, under the Borgias, the current fortress was built to a design by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder: its walls, still almost intact, reflect early-Renaissance military engineering.
A historic centre to explore on foot
The village sits on a tuff spur surrounded by green ravines. It combines well with Sutri and Civita Castellana for a full day in Lower Tuscia.
The fortress can be visited; check seasonal opening hours with the local tourist office.
