EASY Driver: Fifth Episode in Bagnoregio and Civita, the 'Unfading Village
Easy Driver: Fifth Episode Explores Bagnoregio and Civita, the "Unfading Village"
Exploring the Charming Scenery of Bagnoregio and Civita in the Heart of Lazio
We're in the heart of Lazio, in the midst of the Valle dei Calanchi in the Viterbo province, bordering Umbria. Bagnoregio and the splendid village of Civita di Bagnoregio are the chosen destinations for the fifth episode of "Easy Driver," a Rai Uno program dedicated to the world of four-wheeled travel. Tune in on Saturday, November 23, at 11:40 AM to join host Margherita Adamo and former Formula 1 driver Nicola Larini as they explore places where time seems to stand still, and nature has been challenging humans for centuries.
Produced by Siri Video and created by author Fabio Di Nicola, the show will introduce us to two road stars: the new Peugeot 208, the latest generation of the 5-door utility car, and the Lexus ES, a luxury sedan with the style of a coupe.
Exploring the Unfading Charm of Civita di Bagnoregio
Directed by Marco Speroni, the episode starts in Civita di Bagnoregio, a small hamlet of the Bagnoregio municipality. Threatened by erosion and landslides, this captivating village perched on a hill miraculously withstands the challenges of nature. What was once called the "dying village" has now become the "unfading village." Thousands of tourists from around the world visit this enchanted place every year, experiencing its allure. Civita hosts numerous cultural events, including "La parola che non muore" (The Unfading Word), an esteemed international literature and arts festival.
Nestled among valleys and ravines, this picturesque village is also the birthplace of San Bonaventura, a prominent figure in the region. A religious leader, philosopher, and theologian, he became a bishop, cardinal, and minister general of the Franciscan Order, also being the first biographer of Saint Francis of Assisi.
A Journey Through History and Innovation
The first stop takes us to Bagnoregio, to one of its most significant places: the Taruffi Museum, dedicated to the great Piero Taruffi. As a driver, record holder, test driver, and designer, he raced with prestigious automobile brands like Maserati and Ferrari. The museum houses rare pieces, including the "Bisiluro" and 1950s microcars like the "Isetta," a precursor to modern microcars like the Smart car. An exhibition area is dedicated to Federico Fellini's masterpiece "La strada," showcasing the motorbike and sidecar used by Zampanò, the antagonist circus performer played by Anthony Quinn.
Delving into Geological Wonders
Returning to Civita di Bagnoregio, we explore the Geological and Landslides Museum. Located within Palazzo degli Alemanni, the museum offers studies and insights into geological phenomena of the area and the stabilization interventions to protect the village throughout history. Among various rooms, one is dedicated to landslides, analyzing the evolution of the landscape that led to a 40-meter decrease in the morphological saddle leading to Civita since 1764.
Cultural and Spiritual Treasures
The episode concludes at Porta Albana, the entrance gate to the village, where we visit the church dedicated to San Bonaventura. Inside, you can admire the main altar's canvas, dating back to 1874, depicting the saint with the sacred heart of Jesus.
And as a delightful surprise, we'll also explore the gastronomic delights of the region. Of course, in this episode, Vincenzo Borgomeo, an experienced automotive journalist, will captivate us with fascinating stories from the world of motors.
