The town of Capodimonte, settled on a picturesque promontory that stretches out toward the water, is the main touristic center of Bolsena Lake. Historically it is the heir of the Etruscan city, Vesentum, destroyed in 280 B.C. and re-founded by the Romans with the name, Visentium. The Lombardic invasion in the mid-8th century resulted in a dispersion of its population: a part found refuge on the promontory where the medieval town of Capodimonte was born; the other part remained and on the rubble constructed the medieval castle of Bisenzio.
The monument that has always given luster to the town is the powerful Rocca Farnese (Farnese Fortress). The construction began at the end of the 15th century on the wishes of Pier Luigi Farnese and lasted almost a century. The building, designed by Antonio da Sangallo il Giovane, is an octagonal design resting on a square wall. The building was the preferred summer headquarters of the Farneseche family, who hosted popes, sovereigns, artists, and Italian and foreign politicians here.
Monte Bisenzo Archaeological Park
Monte Bisenzo, easily defensible, has been inhabited since prehistoric times, followed by the Villanovans, Etruscans, and Romans. Little remains of the city, but it is still possible to recognize the acropolises. More than anything, the site is famous for the exceptional findings of necropolises in the area. It is, however, a pleasant walk among the ruins. The fortified castle that you see was built in the late-Middle Ages, incorporating an old tower.
