Viterbo: Filippo Rossi critiques city identity in new book

Filippo Rossi, a journalist and former council president, has presented his new book, ‘Pensare la città, Viterbo immaginaria, leggere il futuro’ (Thinking the City, Imaginary Viterbo, Reading the Future). During the presentation at Spazio Bic Lazio, Rossi addressed the perceived lack of vision and identity in Viterbo.

Rossi argued that while the city possesses significant assets, such as thermal baths and a university, it fails to function as a thermal or university city. He criticized the political neglect of the historic center and the failure to connect the city's various excellences into a cohesive narrative. He noted that the lack of pride and social opportunities contributes to the exodus of young people.

While Rossi identified these systemic issues, he stated that he does not provide specific political solutions, noting that such responsibilities belong to the political class. The event drew significant interest from local citizens and various political figures, including representatives from Fratelli d'Italia and Lega.