Sovana was initially an Etruscan center of some importance, which was later conquered by the Romans.
The current form of the historic center developed mostly during the Middle Ages, initially under the control of the Aldobrandeschi family. Sovana later passed under multiple dominions: the Orsini, the Medici and the Lorena.
As evidence of the Etruscan presence, one of the most interesting necropolis in Tuscany remains. Notable examples of the tombs are: the Tomb of the Mermaid, the Tomb of the Typhon, the Tomb of the Winged Demon and the Tomb of Hildebrand. The Via Clodia, built by the Romans on an existing route traced by the Etruscans, also passes through Sovana and reaches it through a gate, probably built by the Etruscans, the remains of which are still visible.
The most important religious buildings are: the Cathedral of San Pietro e Paolo, the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Church of San Mamiliano. The first, dating back to the 10th century, was built on a pre-existing 6th century building. The travertine baptismal font dated 1494 is a small jewel. During the summer solstice, at dawn, the faithful gather to celebrate the event with a mass. A ray of sunshine falls on the baptismal font, making the ceremony very evocative.
Among the civil buildings we remember: the Archive Palace, the Praetorian Palace with the Captain’s Loggia, the Burbon del Monte Palace, the Bishop’s Palace and the birthplace of Pope Gregory VII.
Sovana is included in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, sponsored by the National Association of Italian Municipalities.