The palace of the rulers of Viterbo may appear simple from the outside, but its interior is truly surprising. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by an impressive portico with a beautiful fountain dating back to 1600. Beyond this is a narrow staircase leading to the entrance of the Palace Chapel (Cappella del Palazzo), adorned with charming frescoes dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

The palace also contains other equally impressive rooms, but the highlight is the Sala Regia, decorated with 16th-century frescoes depicting the greatness of the city through the eyes of Annio di Viterbo, a man known mainly for… lies. He was essentially the “fake news” of the 15th century, claiming that Noah founded the city of Viterbo and inventing documents (including a seven-volume book) to prove it. These stories even reached the ears of Pope Sixtus. Despite their dubious origin, the frescoes remain fascinating and beautiful.