Walk Among the Calanchi

Walking through the calanchi of Tuscia

The Walk Among the Calanchi is an early May event that invites hikers and curious explorers into the heart of the Valle dei Calanchi, the spectacular amphitheater of eroded clay that envelops Civita di Bagnoregio, in the municipality of Bagnoregio, province of Viterbo, Lazio. Walking along the valley trails, you can observe the calanchi, the clay ridges, and pinnacles shaped by water and wind erosion—a landscape in constant transformation that makes this part of Tuscia truly unique.

The route

The itinerary spans approximately 7 kilometers with a medium-high difficulty level. It is a hike suitable for those with a basic level of fitness, featuring ups and downs, trail sections, and scenic passages. The excursion is led by a geologist who explains the valley's geological history, the phenomena of landslides and erosion, and the delicate balance that has threatened Civita di Bagnoregio for centuries. The highlight of the walk is viewing Civita from an unconventional perspective, from the valley floor and its flanks, offering a stark contrast to the classic village visit.

Nature, geology, and wellness

The walk combines territorial discovery with the promotion of physical activity and well-being. In the most recent edition, the initiative became part of the «Walk for your health» project, promoted by the Viterbo ASL as part of the «Active Communities» prevention plan, aimed at encouraging outdoor physical activity and socialization. This walk also serves as the starting point for Walking Groups, led by walking leaders and physiotherapists from the Bagnoregio Community House.

Civita di Bagnoregio, the "dying city"

The setting for the event is one of the most evocative in Italy. Civita di Bagnoregio is a small village perched on a tuff spur, accessible only by a long pedestrian bridge and progressively eroded by the surrounding calanchi; this is why it is known as the "dying city." Observing it from the valley trails, rather than just from the viewpoint, allows one to fully grasp the fragility and beauty of this place.

A local event

The Walk Among the Calanchi is organized by the Pro Loco of Bagnoregio together with the Municipality, the Viterbo ASL, and, in past editions, the Geological and Landslide Museum. It is a deeply felt community event: even in its early editions, it attracted hundreds of participants, confirming the strong and vibrant bond between the inhabitants of Tuscia and their calanchi.