Otricoli, which was called Ocriculum meaning "Acropolis" during the Roman era, is probably of Umbrian origin. Initially situated on the hill where the modernOcriculum rises up, the Roman Ocriculum moved to the bottom of the valley near the Tiber river, where many ruins of public buildings known since the Renaissance period still exist.
After having been a diocesan seat until the end of the 7th century, at this time the town moved back to the original hilltop, to remain nearly immuted during the centuries. Above all, a church, important example of pre-romanic architecture and heart of the town, was erected. Otricoli's history is due to its important strategical position, which conferred on it several important privileges. Having been a post-station along the Flaminia Road since classical times, the town took an active part in the life along the Road, on which, apart from Popes and Sovereigns, sometimes passing armies, travelled and sojourned; the latter causing damage and destruction in several instances.
Apart from the already mentioned archeological site of Ocriculum, the Town Hall and the "collegiata" of St. Maria Assunta with the Antiquarium, merit a visit. Taking place 40 days after Heaster, the Feast of the "Infiorata of the Corpus Domini" with its theatrical exhibition and the fair of typical local products should not be missed.