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Church of St Sixtus in Viterbo: the church within the walls, and the home of the Facchini
One of Viterbo's oldest churches, San Sisto, stands next to Porta Romana, indeed it is almost fused with the medieval city walls. The building’s roots reach back before the year 1000, being mentioned in documents dating to 1068. Yet its true soul emerges every 3rd of September, when the Facchini di Santa Rosa (Bearers of the Santa Rosa Machine) gather here to receive their blessing before the gruelling Transportation procession.
An architecture of defence and faith
The structure is immediately striking: the 12th-century expansion caused the apse to break through the city walls, and become an integral part of them. This feature makes it truly unique. The small Romanesque bell tower beside it is one of the few surviving original elements, while a second bell tower was fashioned from one of the wall's defensive towers. An ingenious solution.
A sober interior and a rescued work of art
The interior is simple, with three naves divided by columns bearing capitals that all differ from one another. The space is dominated by the raised presbytery, which rests upon an underlying crypt. The bombings of 1944 sadly destroyed a great deal. Among the few works saved, the altarpiece depicting the Madonna and Child with Saints, painted by Florentine artist Neri di Bicci in 1457, stands out.
The church is located in Piazza San Sisto in Viterbo. Entry is free. The church is generally open for worship, but visiting hours may vary. It is advisable to check on site or by contacting the local municipality.
