Church of Santa Maria Nuova
A remarkably preserved medieval church in Viterbo, featuring vivid frescoes, a unique leather triptych, and a historic pulpit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Church of Santa Maria Nuova
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remarkably preserved medieval church in Viterbo, featuring vivid frescoes, a unique leather triptych, and a historic pulpit.
"A beauty, with vivid frescoes and a pulpit where Thomas Aquinas preached."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the art and history without an entry fee. A true hidden gem in Viterbo!
⛪ Near Medieval Quarter
Easily combined with exploring Viterbo's charming medieval streets and other historical sites.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vivid Medieval Frescoes
Step back in time with remarkably preserved frescoes dating from the 14th and 15th centuries, showcasing vibrant colors and historical narratives.
Thomas Aquinas' Pulpit
Exterior
Marvel at the stone pulpit on the outside, where Thomas Aquinas is said to have preached in the 13th century, a significant historical landmark.
Leather Triptych Masterpiece
Admire the unique triptych painted on leather, a rare and captivating work of art that adds to the church's artistic allure.
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Viterbo's Medieval Gem
Art & History Unveiled
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the art and history without an entry fee. A true hidden gem in Viterbo!
⛪ Near Medieval Quarter
Easily combined with exploring Viterbo's charming medieval streets and other historical sites.
🖼️ Admire the Frescoes
Take time to appreciate the vivid 14th and 15th-century frescoes inside.
🗣️ Historic Pulpit
Don't miss the exterior stone pulpit where Thomas Aquinas once preached.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the art and history without an entry fee. A true hidden gem in Viterbo!
⛪ Near Medieval Quarter
Easily combined with exploring Viterbo's charming medieval streets and other historical sites.
🖼️ Admire the Frescoes
Take time to appreciate the vivid 14th and 15th-century frescoes inside.
🗣️ Historic Pulpit
Don't miss the exterior stone pulpit where Thomas Aquinas once preached.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Church of Santa Maria Nuova for its remarkably preserved medieval architecture and the vivid, colorful frescoes that transport you back in time. The unique leather triptych and the historic pulpit associated with Thomas Aquinas are frequently highlighted as must-see features, all within a peaceful atmosphere and with the added bonus of free admission.
"The only church in Viterbo that survived in its original medieval form the centuries and well worth a visit.
The frescos on the wall still have vivid colours. The most interesting item in the church is the triptych painted on leather.
But the stone pulpit on the outside, from which Thomas of Aquino has preached in the 13th century, is special too"
Seimen Burum
"Many works of art and some frescoes as well, dating as far back as 1320, in a peaceful atmosphere. The structure is simple and solemn. It has on the outside a pulpit from where Tommaso d'Aquino spoke."
Giulia
"A beauty"
Etienne Cauchi
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of Santa Maria Nuova is conveniently located near Piazza del Plebiscito, close to Viterbo's medieval quarter. It's a short walk from other key attractions like the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Palazzo dei Papi.
While specific parking details for the church itself aren't widely shared, it's situated in the city center, so public parking areas in Viterbo would be your best bet. Consider parking near the Belvedere or Bagnoregio entrance if visiting those areas, though Santa Maria Nuova is in Viterbo itself.
The church is in the historic center of Viterbo. Depending on your comfort with walking, it's a feasible walk from the Viterbo Porta Romana train station, but a taxi or local bus might be more convenient if you have luggage or prefer a shorter journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Specific opening hours can vary, but the church is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or confirm with tourist information upon arrival in Viterbo, as it's a functioning place of worship.
No, the Church of Santa Maria Nuova offers free admission, making it an excellent and accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
As there is no entrance fee and it's a historical church, advance booking is not required for the Church of Santa Maria Nuova. You can visit spontaneously.
🎫 🖼️ Art & History
Inside, you'll find vivid frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries, as well as a unique and interesting triptych painted on leather. The simple yet solemn structure itself is also a work of art.
The stone pulpit on the outside of the church is historically significant as it is believed to be where Thomas Aquinas preached in the 13th century.
Yes, the Church of Santa Maria Nuova is noted for surviving in its original medieval form, making it a valuable historical site in Viterbo.
While official guided tours specifically for Santa Maria Nuova might not be readily advertised, local tourist information centers in Viterbo may offer walking tours that include this church as part of a broader historical exploration of the city.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside churches for personal use, but it's always best to be respectful. Avoid using flash, especially when photographing frescoes, as it can damage the delicate pigments over time.
Focus on capturing the details of the vivid frescoes and the unique leather triptych. The exterior pulpit also makes for a striking photograph, especially with the medieval architecture in the background.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for specific figures in the frescoes or imagine the historical sermons from the pulpit. It's a chance to introduce them to medieval history and art in a tangible way without the overwhelm of larger, more crowded museums. Remember to keep voices low and respect the sanctity of the place.
🏛️ History Buffs
The exterior pulpit, linked to Thomas Aquinas, provides a tangible connection to a pivotal figure in medieval philosophy and theology. Exploring the church allows for a deep dive into the historical context of Viterbo during the Middle Ages, offering insights into its religious, artistic, and intellectual life.
🎨 Art Aficionados
The triptych painted on leather is a unique artistic curiosity that deserves special attention. Its rarity and the skill involved in its creation make it a fascinating piece to study. The overall simplicity of the church's structure also serves to emphasize the artworks within, allowing them to be the focal point.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Medieval Viterbo
Beyond its architectural integrity, the church is a repository of significant artistic works. The vivid frescoes adorning its walls, dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, are remarkably well-preserved, showcasing the artistic styles and religious narratives of the period. A particularly noteworthy piece is the unique triptych painted on leather, a rare medium that adds to the church's artistic intrigue.
Adding to its historical weight is the exterior stone pulpit, famously associated with Thomas Aquinas, who is said to have preached from it in the 13th century. This connection to a prominent philosopher and theologian underscores the church's historical and spiritual importance. The combination of well-preserved art, solemn architecture, and historical connections makes Santa Maria Nuova a compelling destination for history and art enthusiasts.
Artistic Treasures Within
A standout piece is the triptych painted on leather. This unusual medium is a testament to the diverse artistic techniques employed during the medieval period. The intricate details and the unique texture of the leather make this artwork particularly captivating and a must-see for art lovers.
While the interior art is significant, the exterior stone pulpit also holds artistic and historical merit. Its simple yet robust design speaks to the architectural style of the time, and its association with Thomas Aquinas adds a layer of profound historical significance. Together, these elements create a layered artistic experience within the church.
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