Italian's Guidebook
Sightseeing
Beautiful city to visit, lots of history. The only working fountain in Italy in front of the cathedral in the main square in Perugia. The place to taste Umbria chocolate makers, great chocolate choice. Wonderful food, restaurants, bars, cafes. Good place for shopping.
Not to be missed visit the underground Perugia.
HISTORY
Etruscan in origin, Perugia later became a flourishing Roman municipium called "Augusta Perusia". After the fall of the Empire, it suffered the barbarian invasions and was destroyed by Totila and the Goths (547 AD). It was then conquered by Byzantines, and became one of the strongholds of their dominion against the expansion of the Lombard Duchy of Spoleto. Perugia remained Byzantine until the 8th century, when it came under papal rule, and when it became an independent commune in 1000 AD it remained an ally of the papacy. The friendship with the Church of Rome deteriorated irremediably in the 14th century when Perugia destroyed Foligno, an ally of the Pope: from that time on, Perugia's history was an endless succession of civil struggles, conspiracies, betrayals and wars, until the Papal States under Pope Paul III took control once and for all. Perugia was deprived of every freedom and independence, and all attempts at overthrowing papal rule were punished with massacres and destruction. In 1860 Perugia was joined to the Kingdom of Italy.
ART AND CULTURE
Perugia has an immense heritage of art and culture, the fruit of its glorious past. One finds monuments everywhere bearing witness to its many centuries of history, art and culture, from its squares to its tiniest alleys, starting with the Etruscan Arch, also known as the Arch of Augustus, a monumental gate in the ancient Etruscan city walls and later restored in Roman times, the Etruscan Well and Porta Marzia, the second monumental Etruscan gate, now incorporated in a rampart of the Rocca Paolina, a fortress erected by Pope Paul III in 1540. Standing on Piazza IV Novembre, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, is the Palazzo dei Priori. An elegant Gothic edifice, it is also the home of the National Gallery of Umbria, which holds some of the greatest masterpieces of Italian art from the Middle Ages to the 18th century, including works by Piero della Francesca, Benozzo Gozzoli, Beato Angelico, Pinturicchio, and Perugino. Also very fine are the Sala dei Notari, the Collegio del Cambio, the old seat of the money exchangers' guild, with the famous fresco cycle by Perugino and the San Giovanni Battista chapel with 16th-century frescoes, the Collegio della Mercanzia, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and its annexed Chapter Museum, and the gorgeous Fontana Maggiore, a 13th-century fountain designed by Frà Bevignate of Perugia with bas-reliefs by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano. Other interesting buildings are the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Palazzo della Vecchia Università, the old seat of the university and now used as the Perugia Courthouse, Palazzo Donini and Palazzo Cesaroni, respectively the seats of the Umbria Regional Cabinet and the Regional Council, the Palazzo della Provincia (1870) in the Lombard style, and Palazzo della Penna, an exhibition center with permanent collections and which also hosts temporary exhibits. There is also the elegant theater, Teatro Morlacchi (1788), as well as Palazzo Antinori-Gallenga Stuart (1754), home of the University of Foreigners. Perugia has many religious buildings worthy of note: the Basilica of San Pietro, with its splendid cloister, the Basilica of San Domenico, next door to the National Archeological Museum of Umbria and its extensive collection of Umbrian, Etruscan and Roman artifacts, the round Temple of Sant'Angelo, the San Francesco al Prato complex with the former church of San Francesco and the Oratory of San Bernardino, the Church of San Filippo Neri, the San Severo Chapel with a fresco, the Holy Trinity and Saints, painted in part by Raphael and in part by Perugino, the Church of Santa Maria Nuova with a wooden choir and organ built in 1584, the Church of Sant'Ercolano, and the Church of San Bevignate (13th century). Other enjoyable visits in town are the Botanical Garden and the Medieval Garden, the latter at the Abbey of San Pietro; places of interest in the nearby area include the Volumni Hypogeum (2nd cent. BC) in Ponte San Giovanni and Perugino's tomb and frescoes by him in Fontignano.
463 místní doporučují
Perugia
Beautiful city to visit, lots of history. The only working fountain in Italy in front of the cathedral in the main square in Perugia. The place to taste Umbria chocolate makers, great chocolate choice. Wonderful food, restaurants, bars, cafes. Good place for shopping.
Not to be missed visit the underground Perugia.
HISTORY
Etruscan in origin, Perugia later became a flourishing Roman municipium called "Augusta Perusia". After the fall of the Empire, it suffered the barbarian invasions and was destroyed by Totila and the Goths (547 AD). It was then conquered by Byzantines, and became one of the strongholds of their dominion against the expansion of the Lombard Duchy of Spoleto. Perugia remained Byzantine until the 8th century, when it came under papal rule, and when it became an independent commune in 1000 AD it remained an ally of the papacy. The friendship with the Church of Rome deteriorated irremediably in the 14th century when Perugia destroyed Foligno, an ally of the Pope: from that time on, Perugia's history was an endless succession of civil struggles, conspiracies, betrayals and wars, until the Papal States under Pope Paul III took control once and for all. Perugia was deprived of every freedom and independence, and all attempts at overthrowing papal rule were punished with massacres and destruction. In 1860 Perugia was joined to the Kingdom of Italy.
ART AND CULTURE
Perugia has an immense heritage of art and culture, the fruit of its glorious past. One finds monuments everywhere bearing witness to its many centuries of history, art and culture, from its squares to its tiniest alleys, starting with the Etruscan Arch, also known as the Arch of Augustus, a monumental gate in the ancient Etruscan city walls and later restored in Roman times, the Etruscan Well and Porta Marzia, the second monumental Etruscan gate, now incorporated in a rampart of the Rocca Paolina, a fortress erected by Pope Paul III in 1540. Standing on Piazza IV Novembre, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, is the Palazzo dei Priori. An elegant Gothic edifice, it is also the home of the National Gallery of Umbria, which holds some of the greatest masterpieces of Italian art from the Middle Ages to the 18th century, including works by Piero della Francesca, Benozzo Gozzoli, Beato Angelico, Pinturicchio, and Perugino. Also very fine are the Sala dei Notari, the Collegio del Cambio, the old seat of the money exchangers' guild, with the famous fresco cycle by Perugino and the San Giovanni Battista chapel with 16th-century frescoes, the Collegio della Mercanzia, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and its annexed Chapter Museum, and the gorgeous Fontana Maggiore, a 13th-century fountain designed by Frà Bevignate of Perugia with bas-reliefs by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano. Other interesting buildings are the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Palazzo della Vecchia Università, the old seat of the university and now used as the Perugia Courthouse, Palazzo Donini and Palazzo Cesaroni, respectively the seats of the Umbria Regional Cabinet and the Regional Council, the Palazzo della Provincia (1870) in the Lombard style, and Palazzo della Penna, an exhibition center with permanent collections and which also hosts temporary exhibits. There is also the elegant theater, Teatro Morlacchi (1788), as well as Palazzo Antinori-Gallenga Stuart (1754), home of the University of Foreigners. Perugia has many religious buildings worthy of note: the Basilica of San Pietro, with its splendid cloister, the Basilica of San Domenico, next door to the National Archeological Museum of Umbria and its extensive collection of Umbrian, Etruscan and Roman artifacts, the round Temple of Sant'Angelo, the San Francesco al Prato complex with the former church of San Francesco and the Oratory of San Bernardino, the Church of San Filippo Neri, the San Severo Chapel with a fresco, the Holy Trinity and Saints, painted in part by Raphael and in part by Perugino, the Church of Santa Maria Nuova with a wooden choir and organ built in 1584, the Church of Sant'Ercolano, and the Church of San Bevignate (13th century). Other enjoyable visits in town are the Botanical Garden and the Medieval Garden, the latter at the Abbey of San Pietro; places of interest in the nearby area include the Volumni Hypogeum (2nd cent. BC) in Ponte San Giovanni and Perugino's tomb and frescoes by him in Fontignano.
Wonderful Assisi, the most important place in Christianity after Rome. Set high on a mountain, impressive views, wonderful cobbled streets with shops, restaurants and cafes. Visit the must see basilica of saint Francis and duomo of San Rufino.
Assisi is located in central-eastern Umbria, nestled on the slopes of Mt. Subasio, overlooking the plain formed by the Topino and Chiascio rivers, tributaries of the Tiber.
It is the birthplace of St. Francis and St. Clare, and it has become famous throughout the world as a universal center for the Franciscan message of peace and brotherhood. Built in the typical pink stone from Mt. Subasio, Assisi lives in and shares with visitors its atmosphere of profound spirituality made unique in all the world by the history and faith of its saints.
HISTORY
Founded by the ancient Umbrians, Assisi was later taken over by the Etruscans. In the 1st century BC it became an important Roman municipium. In 545 AD it was attacked by the Goths led by Totila; they were succeeded by the Lombards, who incorporated it into the Duchy of Spoleto. In the 12th century it acquired the privileges of an independent commune, but could not hold on to its independence for long: political and military instability continued until the 16th century, when, after various rules (the papacy, the Visconti, Braccio Fortebraccio and Francesco Sforza), Assisi became part of the Papal States and, except for the brief Napoleonic period, it remained under the rule of the pope until 1860, with the birth of the Italian state.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
In the year 2000, Assisi, together with its historic center, the Basilica of St. Francis and other Franciscan sites, and almost the entire municipal territory, was declared part of the World Heritage of Mankind by UNESCO. Among the many monuments that make Assisi one of the Italian tourist destinations most richly endowed with art are the Basilica of St. Francis, a cornerstone of world religious devotion, the Basilica of Santa Chiara, and the Romanesque Cathedral of San Rufino. Standing on the main square are the Palazzo dei Priori, the 13th-century Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo with its Civic Tower, and the Temple of Minerva, a perfectly preserved Roman temple from the late Republican age (1st century BC). Just outside the walls and dominating over the town is the superb Rocca Maggiore, a fortress built in 1367 by Cardinal Albornoz on top of an older structure (1174) from a feudal castle. There are places connected with the life of St. Francis that can be visited in the immediate vicinity of Assisi, such as the Carceri Hermitage, set in a thick wood on the slopes of Mt. Subasio, the Convent of San Damiano, the imposing Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, built between 1569 and 1679 to protect the Porziuncola, the tiny church that welcomed the first community of Franciscans, and the Chapel of the Transito, where St. Francis died on 4 October 1226. For nature lovers, there is the beautiful Mt. Subasio Regional Park, established to protect an area of great environmental value and permeated with a mystical atmosphere.
594 místní doporučují
Assisi
Wonderful Assisi, the most important place in Christianity after Rome. Set high on a mountain, impressive views, wonderful cobbled streets with shops, restaurants and cafes. Visit the must see basilica of saint Francis and duomo of San Rufino.
Assisi is located in central-eastern Umbria, nestled on the slopes of Mt. Subasio, overlooking the plain formed by the Topino and Chiascio rivers, tributaries of the Tiber.
It is the birthplace of St. Francis and St. Clare, and it has become famous throughout the world as a universal center for the Franciscan message of peace and brotherhood. Built in the typical pink stone from Mt. Subasio, Assisi lives in and shares with visitors its atmosphere of profound spirituality made unique in all the world by the history and faith of its saints.
HISTORY
Founded by the ancient Umbrians, Assisi was later taken over by the Etruscans. In the 1st century BC it became an important Roman municipium. In 545 AD it was attacked by the Goths led by Totila; they were succeeded by the Lombards, who incorporated it into the Duchy of Spoleto. In the 12th century it acquired the privileges of an independent commune, but could not hold on to its independence for long: political and military instability continued until the 16th century, when, after various rules (the papacy, the Visconti, Braccio Fortebraccio and Francesco Sforza), Assisi became part of the Papal States and, except for the brief Napoleonic period, it remained under the rule of the pope until 1860, with the birth of the Italian state.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
In the year 2000, Assisi, together with its historic center, the Basilica of St. Francis and other Franciscan sites, and almost the entire municipal territory, was declared part of the World Heritage of Mankind by UNESCO. Among the many monuments that make Assisi one of the Italian tourist destinations most richly endowed with art are the Basilica of St. Francis, a cornerstone of world religious devotion, the Basilica of Santa Chiara, and the Romanesque Cathedral of San Rufino. Standing on the main square are the Palazzo dei Priori, the 13th-century Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo with its Civic Tower, and the Temple of Minerva, a perfectly preserved Roman temple from the late Republican age (1st century BC). Just outside the walls and dominating over the town is the superb Rocca Maggiore, a fortress built in 1367 by Cardinal Albornoz on top of an older structure (1174) from a feudal castle. There are places connected with the life of St. Francis that can be visited in the immediate vicinity of Assisi, such as the Carceri Hermitage, set in a thick wood on the slopes of Mt. Subasio, the Convent of San Damiano, the imposing Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, built between 1569 and 1679 to protect the Porziuncola, the tiny church that welcomed the first community of Franciscans, and the Chapel of the Transito, where St. Francis died on 4 October 1226. For nature lovers, there is the beautiful Mt. Subasio Regional Park, established to protect an area of great environmental value and permeated with a mystical atmosphere.
Only 10 minutes away from the house is this wonderful place with its great fortress set on the mountain inside the old city walls. Wonderful scenery and views of the lake Trasimeno and surroundings. Great place for food, drink, shopping of special local food, olive oil, local cheese, meat and wine. Great Umbrian wine of all sorts.
156 místní doporučují
Castiglione Del Lago
9 Viale TrappesOnly 10 minutes away from the house is this wonderful place with its great fortress set on the mountain inside the old city walls. Wonderful scenery and views of the lake Trasimeno and surroundings. Great place for food, drink, shopping of special local food, olive oil, local cheese, meat and wine. Great Umbrian wine of all sorts.
The historical centre still maintains the typical medieval urban layout on which Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassic buildings were later constructed, proof of the artistic vitality of this city. The sights to see are the Cathedral of Santi Gervasio e Protasio (Duomo), which houses works by two great Città della Pieve artists - Il Perugino and Il Pomarancio - and the Oratory of Santa Maria dei Bianchi, home to the extraordinary Adoration of the Magi by Il Perugino.
Aside from the city tower, built in the XII century, and the Bishop's tower, a watch tower probably built in 1326, you can visit such noteworthy landmarks as the Rocca (Fortress) with its five towers, Palazzo della Corgna (XVI century), home to the city library and exhibition space, Palazzo Bandini (XVI century) and Palazzo Baglioni, which dates to the XVIII century.
Outside the city walls are the Church of San Francesco, now the sanctuary of the Madonna di Fatima, the Church of Santa Maria dei Servi, home to a fresco by Il Perugino depicting the Descent from the Cross, and the Church of Santa Lucia.
12 místní doporučují
Città della Pieve
The historical centre still maintains the typical medieval urban layout on which Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassic buildings were later constructed, proof of the artistic vitality of this city. The sights to see are the Cathedral of Santi Gervasio e Protasio (Duomo), which houses works by two great Città della Pieve artists - Il Perugino and Il Pomarancio - and the Oratory of Santa Maria dei Bianchi, home to the extraordinary Adoration of the Magi by Il Perugino.
Aside from the city tower, built in the XII century, and the Bishop's tower, a watch tower probably built in 1326, you can visit such noteworthy landmarks as the Rocca (Fortress) with its five towers, Palazzo della Corgna (XVI century), home to the city library and exhibition space, Palazzo Bandini (XVI century) and Palazzo Baglioni, which dates to the XVIII century.
Outside the city walls are the Church of San Francesco, now the sanctuary of the Madonna di Fatima, the Church of Santa Maria dei Servi, home to a fresco by Il Perugino depicting the Descent from the Cross, and the Church of Santa Lucia.
HISTORY
Orvieto's origins go back to the Etruscan civilization: the earliest settlements in the 9th century BC localized around the caves in the tuff massif upon which the town currently stands. Archeological evidence shows that the city reached its economic and artistic peak between the 6th and 4th century BC. After 263 BC the Romans took hold of the city, leaving intact the institutions, customs and language of the Etruscans, but changing its name to "Urbs Vetus" (from which comes its present-day name of Orvieto). After the fall of the Roman Empire, it was conquered first by the Goths, then the Byzantines, then the Lombards of the Duchy of Spoleto. In about 1000 AD it underwent new urbanistic, economic and social development, and soon became an independent commune with a government that Pope Adrian VI officially recognized and legitimated in 1157. In the 12th century, following victorious battles against Siena, Viterbo, Perugia and Todi and with the alliance of Florence, it extended its borders, ruling vast areas of the present-day regions of Tuscany and Lazio. Medieval Orvieto's power and wealth reached its peak in the 13th and 14th centuries, as can be seen from the splendid buildings the town is still proud of today. After a period of civic and religious strife among Orvieto's noble families, in 1354 Cardinal Albornoz reasserted the papacy's control over the area. In 1449 it permanently became part of the Papal States, and remained so until 1860, with the birth of the Kingdom of Italy.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Orvieto's art and cultural heritage is one of the richest in Italy. The Cathedral, designed by Lorenzo Maitani in the 13th century, is one of the most majestic creations in Italian architecture. Its magnificent Gothic façade is decorated with mosaics and bas-reliefs, and has a splendid rose window by Orcagna. Among the many works inside is a masterpiece of Italian painting of the 1400-1500s: the fresco cycle by Fra' Angelico and Luca Signorelli in the San Brizio Chapel. Orvieto has many ancient churches: San Giovenale, built in 1004 and enlarged in the 14th century, has frescoes by the Orvieto school; San Giovanni, built in 916 over Constantine's Theater and with a 16th-century façade; Sant'Andrea, originally from the 6th century, rebuilt in the 11th century and completed in the 1300s; San Lorenzo de' Arari and San Francesco (13th century); and San Domenico (13th century), which holds the tomb of Cardinal de Braye by Arnolfo di Cambio. The town's most representative civic buildings include: the Palazzo Comunale or Town Hall (1216-1219); Palazzo del Popolo (13th century), a Romanesque-Gothic structure; Palazzo dei Sette (1292); two towers, the Torre del Moro (13th century) and Torre di Maurizio (1348); Palazzo Faina, home of the Archeological and Civic Museum; Palazzo dei Papi (13th century), home of the National Archeological Museum, the Opera del Duomo Museum and the Emilio Greco Museum of Modern Art; and the Luigi Mancinelli Municipal Theater (1844). A unique visit is that of St. Patrick's Well, a virtuosic work of engineering (1527-1537) designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger to supply the town with water. The well is 62 meters deep, and has two separate helical staircases that make it possible to go down the well to get water without bumping into those going back up. The well was commissioned by Pope Clement VII, who also had another well, the Pozzo della Cava, built in place of an existing Etruscan structure, incorporated into a system of nine caves that hold a large number of Etruscan, medieval and Renaissance artifacts. Hidden underneath the town lies fascinating underground Orvieto, where an incredible number of artificial caves create an intricate maze of tunnels, cisterns, wells, quarries and cellars. Just outside the walls is the Etruscan Crocifisso del Tufo Necropolis (4th-5th century BC), with chamber tombs made from blocks of tuff stone with the names of the deceased inscribed above the tomb entrances. The necropolis can be reached on foot from the historic center, along an interesting path through the archeological park. Orvieto is the "Città Slow" (Slow Food cities) capital. The town and surrounding area can boast of a thriving wine and food tradition: the famous Orvieto wine can be enjoyed along the Etruscan-Roman Wine Route, which includes the entire Province of Terni: those interested should check at the Enoteca Regionale (regional wine shop) and at Palazzo del Gusto.
390 místní doporučují
Orvieto
HISTORY
Orvieto's origins go back to the Etruscan civilization: the earliest settlements in the 9th century BC localized around the caves in the tuff massif upon which the town currently stands. Archeological evidence shows that the city reached its economic and artistic peak between the 6th and 4th century BC. After 263 BC the Romans took hold of the city, leaving intact the institutions, customs and language of the Etruscans, but changing its name to "Urbs Vetus" (from which comes its present-day name of Orvieto). After the fall of the Roman Empire, it was conquered first by the Goths, then the Byzantines, then the Lombards of the Duchy of Spoleto. In about 1000 AD it underwent new urbanistic, economic and social development, and soon became an independent commune with a government that Pope Adrian VI officially recognized and legitimated in 1157. In the 12th century, following victorious battles against Siena, Viterbo, Perugia and Todi and with the alliance of Florence, it extended its borders, ruling vast areas of the present-day regions of Tuscany and Lazio. Medieval Orvieto's power and wealth reached its peak in the 13th and 14th centuries, as can be seen from the splendid buildings the town is still proud of today. After a period of civic and religious strife among Orvieto's noble families, in 1354 Cardinal Albornoz reasserted the papacy's control over the area. In 1449 it permanently became part of the Papal States, and remained so until 1860, with the birth of the Kingdom of Italy.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Orvieto's art and cultural heritage is one of the richest in Italy. The Cathedral, designed by Lorenzo Maitani in the 13th century, is one of the most majestic creations in Italian architecture. Its magnificent Gothic façade is decorated with mosaics and bas-reliefs, and has a splendid rose window by Orcagna. Among the many works inside is a masterpiece of Italian painting of the 1400-1500s: the fresco cycle by Fra' Angelico and Luca Signorelli in the San Brizio Chapel. Orvieto has many ancient churches: San Giovenale, built in 1004 and enlarged in the 14th century, has frescoes by the Orvieto school; San Giovanni, built in 916 over Constantine's Theater and with a 16th-century façade; Sant'Andrea, originally from the 6th century, rebuilt in the 11th century and completed in the 1300s; San Lorenzo de' Arari and San Francesco (13th century); and San Domenico (13th century), which holds the tomb of Cardinal de Braye by Arnolfo di Cambio. The town's most representative civic buildings include: the Palazzo Comunale or Town Hall (1216-1219); Palazzo del Popolo (13th century), a Romanesque-Gothic structure; Palazzo dei Sette (1292); two towers, the Torre del Moro (13th century) and Torre di Maurizio (1348); Palazzo Faina, home of the Archeological and Civic Museum; Palazzo dei Papi (13th century), home of the National Archeological Museum, the Opera del Duomo Museum and the Emilio Greco Museum of Modern Art; and the Luigi Mancinelli Municipal Theater (1844). A unique visit is that of St. Patrick's Well, a virtuosic work of engineering (1527-1537) designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger to supply the town with water. The well is 62 meters deep, and has two separate helical staircases that make it possible to go down the well to get water without bumping into those going back up. The well was commissioned by Pope Clement VII, who also had another well, the Pozzo della Cava, built in place of an existing Etruscan structure, incorporated into a system of nine caves that hold a large number of Etruscan, medieval and Renaissance artifacts. Hidden underneath the town lies fascinating underground Orvieto, where an incredible number of artificial caves create an intricate maze of tunnels, cisterns, wells, quarries and cellars. Just outside the walls is the Etruscan Crocifisso del Tufo Necropolis (4th-5th century BC), with chamber tombs made from blocks of tuff stone with the names of the deceased inscribed above the tomb entrances. The necropolis can be reached on foot from the historic center, along an interesting path through the archeological park. Orvieto is the "Città Slow" (Slow Food cities) capital. The town and surrounding area can boast of a thriving wine and food tradition: the famous Orvieto wine can be enjoyed along the Etruscan-Roman Wine Route, which includes the entire Province of Terni: those interested should check at the Enoteca Regionale (regional wine shop) and at Palazzo del Gusto.
Foligno was founded by the ancient Umbrians, followed by the Romans, who made it a municipium and an important post on the Flaminian Way. Later destroyed by barbarian invasions and subsequently rebuilt, it became an independent commune in the 11th century, but in about 1310 it came under the seigniory of the powerful Trinci family (vicars of the Church after 1336), under whose rule the town developed considerably. With the Trinci it extended its dominion over many neighboring towns (Assisi, Spello, Montefalco). In the 15th century it became part of the Papal States, remaining under its rule (except for the brief Napoleonic period) until 1860, when it became part of Italy with the birth of the Italian State.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Foligno's historic center has a number of beautiful religious buildings and noble palaces. Starting from Piazza della Repubblica, focal point of the town's civic and social life, worthy of a visit are the Cathedral, with its secondary façade, an architectural gem, by the masters Rodolfo and Binello (1201), the Town Hall, and Palazzo Trinci (1389-1407), seat of the Archeological Museum and of the Picture Gallery. Nearby is the new Municipal Library, which has over 600 drawings by the Imperial Regio Architect Giuseppe Piermarini. Other must-sees are: the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria Infraportas, with frescoes by Nelli, Ugolino di Gisberto, Alunno and Mezzastris; the Church of San Salvatore, with an 18th-century interior by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli; and the former church of San Domenico, today a splendid Auditorium. There are also the Oratory of the Nunziatella, a fine example of Renaissance architecture with two frescoes by Perugino, and the Church of San Francesco, which holds the remains of Blessed Angela of Foligno, a famous mystic and teacher of theology who was born near the present-day Porta Romana. Another important religious building is the Cathedral of San Feliciano, which according to tradition stands on the spot where the first bishop of Foligno is buried, a Christian martyr under the emperor Decius. The noble palaces include Palazzo Orfini, where Evangelista Mei of Foligno and Johann Numeister from Germany printed the first edition of Dante's Divine Comedy in 1472, Palazzo Cantagalli, Palazzo Deli, Palazzo Alleori Ubaldi, Palazzo Bartocci and Palazzo Candiotti. Nearby are the very interesting Sassovivo Abbey (11th century), with its stupendous Romanesque cloister and unique mystical Benedictine atmosphere, the Church of Santa Maria in Campis, an early Christian basilica restored in the 19th century, and the Rocca dei Trinci fortress (15th century) in Sant'Eraclio. In Pale, an old village famous for the paper mills built there in the 13th century, there is a castle, as well as the churches of San Biagio and Santa Maria Giacobbe. Not far away is the Hermitage, a church dug out of the rock and decorated with frescoes. Worthy of a visit in Colfiorito are the archeological findings and the Church of Santa Maria di Plestia (10th century). The Colfiorito Regional Park is a vast tableland of great natural and environmental interest and worth: it comprises a marsh, home to rare species of plants, flowers and water birds, a mountain, and the archeological site of the ancient Roman town of Plestia.
57 místní doporučují
Foligno
Foligno was founded by the ancient Umbrians, followed by the Romans, who made it a municipium and an important post on the Flaminian Way. Later destroyed by barbarian invasions and subsequently rebuilt, it became an independent commune in the 11th century, but in about 1310 it came under the seigniory of the powerful Trinci family (vicars of the Church after 1336), under whose rule the town developed considerably. With the Trinci it extended its dominion over many neighboring towns (Assisi, Spello, Montefalco). In the 15th century it became part of the Papal States, remaining under its rule (except for the brief Napoleonic period) until 1860, when it became part of Italy with the birth of the Italian State.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Foligno's historic center has a number of beautiful religious buildings and noble palaces. Starting from Piazza della Repubblica, focal point of the town's civic and social life, worthy of a visit are the Cathedral, with its secondary façade, an architectural gem, by the masters Rodolfo and Binello (1201), the Town Hall, and Palazzo Trinci (1389-1407), seat of the Archeological Museum and of the Picture Gallery. Nearby is the new Municipal Library, which has over 600 drawings by the Imperial Regio Architect Giuseppe Piermarini. Other must-sees are: the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria Infraportas, with frescoes by Nelli, Ugolino di Gisberto, Alunno and Mezzastris; the Church of San Salvatore, with an 18th-century interior by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli; and the former church of San Domenico, today a splendid Auditorium. There are also the Oratory of the Nunziatella, a fine example of Renaissance architecture with two frescoes by Perugino, and the Church of San Francesco, which holds the remains of Blessed Angela of Foligno, a famous mystic and teacher of theology who was born near the present-day Porta Romana. Another important religious building is the Cathedral of San Feliciano, which according to tradition stands on the spot where the first bishop of Foligno is buried, a Christian martyr under the emperor Decius. The noble palaces include Palazzo Orfini, where Evangelista Mei of Foligno and Johann Numeister from Germany printed the first edition of Dante's Divine Comedy in 1472, Palazzo Cantagalli, Palazzo Deli, Palazzo Alleori Ubaldi, Palazzo Bartocci and Palazzo Candiotti. Nearby are the very interesting Sassovivo Abbey (11th century), with its stupendous Romanesque cloister and unique mystical Benedictine atmosphere, the Church of Santa Maria in Campis, an early Christian basilica restored in the 19th century, and the Rocca dei Trinci fortress (15th century) in Sant'Eraclio. In Pale, an old village famous for the paper mills built there in the 13th century, there is a castle, as well as the churches of San Biagio and Santa Maria Giacobbe. Not far away is the Hermitage, a church dug out of the rock and decorated with frescoes. Worthy of a visit in Colfiorito are the archeological findings and the Church of Santa Maria di Plestia (10th century). The Colfiorito Regional Park is a vast tableland of great natural and environmental interest and worth: it comprises a marsh, home to rare species of plants, flowers and water birds, a mountain, and the archeological site of the ancient Roman town of Plestia.
Located in southeastern Umbria, Spoleto is one of the region's most fascinating art towns. Its wealth of history, varied cultural heritage and important arts events make it one of the tourist destinations most highly esteemed by visitors.
HISTORY
An important fortified Umbrian settlement, Spoleto became a Roman colony and later a municipium (90 BC). After the fall of the Roman empire, it was taken over first by Theodoric, king of the Visigoths, and then by the Byzantine Belisarius. Seized by Totila, it was rebuilt by the Byzantine general Narses. In the early Middle Ages, it became the capital of the Lombard Duchy of Spoleto. In 1155 Spoleto was conquered and destroyed by Frederick Barbarossa, and after a series of conflicts between the Guelfs and the Ghibellines it was conquered again by Cardinal Albornoz, who secured it for the papacy and made it an important town in the Papal States. Apart from the brief period under Napoleon, the papal rule continued unbroken until Spoleto joined the new Italian State.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
The historic center has maintained its medieval appearance, although traces of its Roman heritage are still visible. Spoleto's most ancient monuments are the Arch of Drusus and Germanicus, a Roman arch that led into the forum (now Piazza del Mercato), near the Romanesque Church of Sant'Ansano, the Roman theater, and the Basilica of San Salvatore, an interesting early Christian monument that goes back to the 4th-5th century. Not far away from the 13th-century Church of San Gregorio Maggiore, characterized by its suggestive apse area and the raised presbytery, are the triple-spanned Roman Bridge (or Ponte Sanguinario) made from blocks of travertine and the Amphitheater from the 2nd century AD. The town's greatest monument is the Duomo (Cathedral). Built in the Romanesque style in the 12th century, it was subsequently modified with the addition of a Renaissance portico to the façade, which is decorated with a large Byzantine-style mosaic (1207). Inside are many excellent works of art, including a fresco of the Madonna and Saints by Pinturicchio, the bronze bust of Urban VIII by Bernini, and an extraordinary fresco cycle by Filippo Lippi. The 12th-century Church of Sant'Eufemia is an interesting Romanesque building whose apse faces the stairs leading to Piazza Duomo, the Church of SS. Giovanni e Paolo and the Church of San Ponziano. The Churches of San Domenico and San Nicolò and the Palazzo Comunale, or Town Hall, are instead from the 13th century. The Municipal Picture Gallery holds important works, including a Crucifix on canvas by an Umbrian artist (12th century), two frescoes by Spagna and a Mary Magdalene attributed to Guercino. Also of interest are the Church of San Paolo Inter Vineas (10th century), with an important cycle of 13th-century frescoes, and the Church of San Pietro, built in the 5th century, which has a splendid sculptured Romanesque façade decorated with exceptionally fine bas-reliefs. There are beautiful, wide-open views of all of Spoleto from the area in front of San Pietro, taking in also the mighty Ponte delle Torri, a bridge 80 meters high and 230 meters long supported by ten pointed arches. An ancient Roman aqueduct rebuilt in the 1300s, it links the Rocca Albornoziana, a fortress Cardinal Egidio Albornoz had built starting in 1352 to a design by Matteo Gattaponi, to the slopes of the mountain, Monteluco, overlooking the town. This area of pristine nature has a wood considered sacred by the anchorites who settled here starting in the 7th century and later founded the Convent of San Francesco (1218) and the Church of San Giuliano. Returning to the town proper, deserving of a visit are the Palazzo Collicola, which houses the Municipal Modern Art Gallery, the Archbishop's Palace (Diocesan Museum), Palazzo Racani-Arroni, seat of the Italian Center for Early Medieval Studies, the Teatro Nuovo (1854-64) built on the site of the ancient Roman baths, the Teatro Caio Melisso (1877-1880), the Archeological Museum in the former convent of Sant'Agata, the Diocesan Museum and the Roman house, built in the 1st century AD. Near Spoleto, the "sacred wood" of Monteluco, densely grown with evergreen ilexes, is a beautiful natural and spiritual area. The noteworthy Villa Redenta is built over the remains of a Roman villa, with a beautiful park filled with ancient trees – cedars of Lebanon, ilexes and magnolias – among which the Spoleto nobles strolled in the 17th-19th centuries.
222 místní doporučují
Spoleto
Located in southeastern Umbria, Spoleto is one of the region's most fascinating art towns. Its wealth of history, varied cultural heritage and important arts events make it one of the tourist destinations most highly esteemed by visitors.
HISTORY
An important fortified Umbrian settlement, Spoleto became a Roman colony and later a municipium (90 BC). After the fall of the Roman empire, it was taken over first by Theodoric, king of the Visigoths, and then by the Byzantine Belisarius. Seized by Totila, it was rebuilt by the Byzantine general Narses. In the early Middle Ages, it became the capital of the Lombard Duchy of Spoleto. In 1155 Spoleto was conquered and destroyed by Frederick Barbarossa, and after a series of conflicts between the Guelfs and the Ghibellines it was conquered again by Cardinal Albornoz, who secured it for the papacy and made it an important town in the Papal States. Apart from the brief period under Napoleon, the papal rule continued unbroken until Spoleto joined the new Italian State.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
The historic center has maintained its medieval appearance, although traces of its Roman heritage are still visible. Spoleto's most ancient monuments are the Arch of Drusus and Germanicus, a Roman arch that led into the forum (now Piazza del Mercato), near the Romanesque Church of Sant'Ansano, the Roman theater, and the Basilica of San Salvatore, an interesting early Christian monument that goes back to the 4th-5th century. Not far away from the 13th-century Church of San Gregorio Maggiore, characterized by its suggestive apse area and the raised presbytery, are the triple-spanned Roman Bridge (or Ponte Sanguinario) made from blocks of travertine and the Amphitheater from the 2nd century AD. The town's greatest monument is the Duomo (Cathedral). Built in the Romanesque style in the 12th century, it was subsequently modified with the addition of a Renaissance portico to the façade, which is decorated with a large Byzantine-style mosaic (1207). Inside are many excellent works of art, including a fresco of the Madonna and Saints by Pinturicchio, the bronze bust of Urban VIII by Bernini, and an extraordinary fresco cycle by Filippo Lippi. The 12th-century Church of Sant'Eufemia is an interesting Romanesque building whose apse faces the stairs leading to Piazza Duomo, the Church of SS. Giovanni e Paolo and the Church of San Ponziano. The Churches of San Domenico and San Nicolò and the Palazzo Comunale, or Town Hall, are instead from the 13th century. The Municipal Picture Gallery holds important works, including a Crucifix on canvas by an Umbrian artist (12th century), two frescoes by Spagna and a Mary Magdalene attributed to Guercino. Also of interest are the Church of San Paolo Inter Vineas (10th century), with an important cycle of 13th-century frescoes, and the Church of San Pietro, built in the 5th century, which has a splendid sculptured Romanesque façade decorated with exceptionally fine bas-reliefs. There are beautiful, wide-open views of all of Spoleto from the area in front of San Pietro, taking in also the mighty Ponte delle Torri, a bridge 80 meters high and 230 meters long supported by ten pointed arches. An ancient Roman aqueduct rebuilt in the 1300s, it links the Rocca Albornoziana, a fortress Cardinal Egidio Albornoz had built starting in 1352 to a design by Matteo Gattaponi, to the slopes of the mountain, Monteluco, overlooking the town. This area of pristine nature has a wood considered sacred by the anchorites who settled here starting in the 7th century and later founded the Convent of San Francesco (1218) and the Church of San Giuliano. Returning to the town proper, deserving of a visit are the Palazzo Collicola, which houses the Municipal Modern Art Gallery, the Archbishop's Palace (Diocesan Museum), Palazzo Racani-Arroni, seat of the Italian Center for Early Medieval Studies, the Teatro Nuovo (1854-64) built on the site of the ancient Roman baths, the Teatro Caio Melisso (1877-1880), the Archeological Museum in the former convent of Sant'Agata, the Diocesan Museum and the Roman house, built in the 1st century AD. Near Spoleto, the "sacred wood" of Monteluco, densely grown with evergreen ilexes, is a beautiful natural and spiritual area. The noteworthy Villa Redenta is built over the remains of a Roman villa, with a beautiful park filled with ancient trees – cedars of Lebanon, ilexes and magnolias – among which the Spoleto nobles strolled in the 17th-19th centuries.
After the Ancient Umbrii who, according to many historians, founded Spello, the Romans arrived. They called the colony Julia Hispellum (circa 41 BC) and gave impetus to the town's most important historical period. After the fall of the Roman Empire the town was destroyed by the Ostrogoths led by Totila and became part of the Longobard Duchy of Spoleto. After the turbulent years of the Early Middle Ages, it became an independent commune in the 12th century.
Towards the end of the 14th century Spello was under the rule of the Baglioni family from Perugia who held it until 1583. During this time the town enjoyed an intense period of artistic activity and was enriched with Renaissance masterpieces by Pintoricchio, Perugino and Alunno. Spello then came under the dominion of the Papal States, except for the brief Napoleonic period, until 1860.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Spello combines its medieval features, such as winding alleys and ancient stone houses, with several testimonies of the Roman era, such as the town walls and the still well preserved doors, the remains of the theatre, the amphitheatre and of the therms opened along this route. The village is still surrounded by walls, erected in 1360 by incorporating part of the Roman city walls and three splendid gates: the Consular gate (first c. BC), the Urbica gate (or St. Ventura gate) and the Venus gate of Augustan age, built as a triumphal arch, flanked by two dodecagonal plant towers, so called of Properzio.
The church of St. Mary Maggiore (12th - 13th century), with great art treasures inside it, stands out among the religious buildings: on the left side of its nave is the splendid Baglioni chapel decorated with frescoes by Pinturicchio and enriched with a floor in majolica from Deruta (1566) as well as Perugino's paintings. The big painting Madonna and Saints (1508) was also executed by Pinturicchio (with a big help of Eusebio da San Giorgio) and is stored in the 1200 church of St. Andrew, that also preserves a Crucifix of the Giotto school, and here the body of the Blessed Andrea Caccioli, companion of St. Francis, is exhibited.
Beyond the Town Hall, home of the Library (ancient collection), of the historical archive and of the Academy of Constantinian Studies, don't miss a visit to Baglioni Palace (1358), Canonical Palace, seat of the Picture Gallery, and the church of St. Lawrence (12th century), preserving a precious marble tabernacle, monumental work of the sculptor Flaminio Vacca (1587).
In the surroundings there is the interesting church of St. Claudio, beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, the church of St. Jerome with the adjacent convent, complex built in 1472 with the financing of Braccio II Baglioni, Master of Spello, Villa Fidelia dating to the 1500 and then considerably transformed and expanded in the 1700 and 1800, built on the place of a majestic Hellenistic sanctuary devoted to different divinities, including of course Venus. The villa hosts a rich collection of paintings, sculptures and antiques.
The complex of St. Jerome is located in the most attractive part of the territory: the area, in the shelter of the Subasio mountain, is characterized by a vegetation that followed naturally the mountain morphology over the years, by developing in accordance with the environmental and natural prerogatives of the place.
177 místní doporučují
Spello
After the Ancient Umbrii who, according to many historians, founded Spello, the Romans arrived. They called the colony Julia Hispellum (circa 41 BC) and gave impetus to the town's most important historical period. After the fall of the Roman Empire the town was destroyed by the Ostrogoths led by Totila and became part of the Longobard Duchy of Spoleto. After the turbulent years of the Early Middle Ages, it became an independent commune in the 12th century.
Towards the end of the 14th century Spello was under the rule of the Baglioni family from Perugia who held it until 1583. During this time the town enjoyed an intense period of artistic activity and was enriched with Renaissance masterpieces by Pintoricchio, Perugino and Alunno. Spello then came under the dominion of the Papal States, except for the brief Napoleonic period, until 1860.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Spello combines its medieval features, such as winding alleys and ancient stone houses, with several testimonies of the Roman era, such as the town walls and the still well preserved doors, the remains of the theatre, the amphitheatre and of the therms opened along this route. The village is still surrounded by walls, erected in 1360 by incorporating part of the Roman city walls and three splendid gates: the Consular gate (first c. BC), the Urbica gate (or St. Ventura gate) and the Venus gate of Augustan age, built as a triumphal arch, flanked by two dodecagonal plant towers, so called of Properzio.
The church of St. Mary Maggiore (12th - 13th century), with great art treasures inside it, stands out among the religious buildings: on the left side of its nave is the splendid Baglioni chapel decorated with frescoes by Pinturicchio and enriched with a floor in majolica from Deruta (1566) as well as Perugino's paintings. The big painting Madonna and Saints (1508) was also executed by Pinturicchio (with a big help of Eusebio da San Giorgio) and is stored in the 1200 church of St. Andrew, that also preserves a Crucifix of the Giotto school, and here the body of the Blessed Andrea Caccioli, companion of St. Francis, is exhibited.
Beyond the Town Hall, home of the Library (ancient collection), of the historical archive and of the Academy of Constantinian Studies, don't miss a visit to Baglioni Palace (1358), Canonical Palace, seat of the Picture Gallery, and the church of St. Lawrence (12th century), preserving a precious marble tabernacle, monumental work of the sculptor Flaminio Vacca (1587).
In the surroundings there is the interesting church of St. Claudio, beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, the church of St. Jerome with the adjacent convent, complex built in 1472 with the financing of Braccio II Baglioni, Master of Spello, Villa Fidelia dating to the 1500 and then considerably transformed and expanded in the 1700 and 1800, built on the place of a majestic Hellenistic sanctuary devoted to different divinities, including of course Venus. The villa hosts a rich collection of paintings, sculptures and antiques.
The complex of St. Jerome is located in the most attractive part of the territory: the area, in the shelter of the Subasio mountain, is characterized by a vegetation that followed naturally the mountain morphology over the years, by developing in accordance with the environmental and natural prerogatives of the place.
HISTORY
Founded by the Romans, it was an important town along the Via Flaminius. At the fall of the Roman Empire, having already been Christianised by Bishop Emiliano, it was occupied by the Longobards and included in the Duchy of Spoleto. During the Middle Ages Trevi was ruled by Foligno and Spoleto. Political and military instability continued until the 16th century when, after domination by various lords (Trinci, Michelotti, Sforza), Trevi became part of the Papal States and remained under their domination, except for the brief Napoleonic period, until 1860.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Immersed in olive plantations, Trevi offers evidence of its Roman period in the mighty town walls (1st century BC) that encircle the historical centre; and the period of the Middle Ages can be seen in the three city gates: Porta del Bruscito, Porta del Cieco, Porta S. Fabiano, and the archway, Arco del Mostaccio. Leading from the walls that enclose the town is the Passeggiata, a magnificent avenue of 800 metres on level ground, that gives a striking panorama onto the valley below. Among the most interesting religious buildings are the church of Sant'Emiliano (12th century), with the altar of the Sacramento by Rocco da Vicenza (1522) and 16th-century frescoes attributed to Francesco Melanzio. Also worthy of a visit is the Gothic church of San Francesco from 1200; and in the 15th-century Palazzo Comunale, town hall, is the Pinacoteca art gallery with a Madonna by Pintoricchio and a Incoronazione di Maria by Lo Spagna. The church and the Pinacoteca, together with the Town Museum and the Archelogical Collection, make up the Raccolta d'Arte di S. Francesco, a collection set up in 1996 in a part of the ex-Convento di S. Francesco. The Raccolta includes the Museo della Civiltà dell'Ulivo that is the first public museum dedicated to olives and olive oil in Europe, which was created to give value to Trevi's centuries-old tradition. Of interest are the richly decorated palaces such as the Collegio Etiopico Pontificio (16th century) frescoed by Federico Zuccari; Casa Petrucci (1500s); Palazzo Valenti (1500s); Palazzo della Prepositura Valenti (mid 1600s); and Renaissance Palazzo Lucarini, home to Trevi Flash Art Museum of contemporary art. In the vicinity worthy of a visit is the church of the Madonna delle Lacrime, which was erected in 1487 to commemorate a miracle and that has a fresco by Perugino. In the hamlet of Bovara is the oldest olive tree in Umbria, 9 metres high and reckoned as 1700 years old. It is known as the tree of Sant'Emiliano because according to tradition in 304, the future patron saint of the town, was tied to it and martyred. Of particular environmental interest is the course of the Clitunno river, known for its clear fresh waters, through the exceptional landscape of the Southern Umbrian (or Spoleto) Valley.
34 místní doporučují
Trevi
HISTORY
Founded by the Romans, it was an important town along the Via Flaminius. At the fall of the Roman Empire, having already been Christianised by Bishop Emiliano, it was occupied by the Longobards and included in the Duchy of Spoleto. During the Middle Ages Trevi was ruled by Foligno and Spoleto. Political and military instability continued until the 16th century when, after domination by various lords (Trinci, Michelotti, Sforza), Trevi became part of the Papal States and remained under their domination, except for the brief Napoleonic period, until 1860.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Immersed in olive plantations, Trevi offers evidence of its Roman period in the mighty town walls (1st century BC) that encircle the historical centre; and the period of the Middle Ages can be seen in the three city gates: Porta del Bruscito, Porta del Cieco, Porta S. Fabiano, and the archway, Arco del Mostaccio. Leading from the walls that enclose the town is the Passeggiata, a magnificent avenue of 800 metres on level ground, that gives a striking panorama onto the valley below. Among the most interesting religious buildings are the church of Sant'Emiliano (12th century), with the altar of the Sacramento by Rocco da Vicenza (1522) and 16th-century frescoes attributed to Francesco Melanzio. Also worthy of a visit is the Gothic church of San Francesco from 1200; and in the 15th-century Palazzo Comunale, town hall, is the Pinacoteca art gallery with a Madonna by Pintoricchio and a Incoronazione di Maria by Lo Spagna. The church and the Pinacoteca, together with the Town Museum and the Archelogical Collection, make up the Raccolta d'Arte di S. Francesco, a collection set up in 1996 in a part of the ex-Convento di S. Francesco. The Raccolta includes the Museo della Civiltà dell'Ulivo that is the first public museum dedicated to olives and olive oil in Europe, which was created to give value to Trevi's centuries-old tradition. Of interest are the richly decorated palaces such as the Collegio Etiopico Pontificio (16th century) frescoed by Federico Zuccari; Casa Petrucci (1500s); Palazzo Valenti (1500s); Palazzo della Prepositura Valenti (mid 1600s); and Renaissance Palazzo Lucarini, home to Trevi Flash Art Museum of contemporary art. In the vicinity worthy of a visit is the church of the Madonna delle Lacrime, which was erected in 1487 to commemorate a miracle and that has a fresco by Perugino. In the hamlet of Bovara is the oldest olive tree in Umbria, 9 metres high and reckoned as 1700 years old. It is known as the tree of Sant'Emiliano because according to tradition in 304, the future patron saint of the town, was tied to it and martyred. Of particular environmental interest is the course of the Clitunno river, known for its clear fresh waters, through the exceptional landscape of the Southern Umbrian (or Spoleto) Valley.
Probably of ancient Umbrian origin, Todi was one of the towns in contact with the Etruscan civilization that flourished on the right bank of the Tiber River, and it was a thriving center in the 5th-4th centuries BC. In Roman times it was a colony and a municipium. Todi's lofty position and solid defense system saved it from destruction during the barbarian invasions, and it was able to live in relative peace during the turbulent early Middle Ages. In the 12th century it became an independent commune, the start of a very prosperous period, which saw the construction of many of its outstanding monuments. Its independence did not last long, however, due to the continuous fighting against Spoleto, Orvieto and Narni. In 1230 the leading religious poet of the 13th century was born in Todi: Jacopo Benedetti, better known as Jacopone da Todi. Political and military instability continued until the 16th century when, after being under various rules, Todi became part of the Papal States, remaining there (except for the Napoleonic period) until 1860.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Todi is encircled by three concentric rings of walls, which provide evidence of the town's size in the Umbrian-Roman, Roman and medieval periods respectively. Just before entering the heart of the historic center, one encounters the impressive Temple of Santa Maria della Consolazione, one of the tallest Renaissance buildings in Umbria, begun in 1508 following a design attributed to Bramante and completed in 1617, with the contribution of the leading architects of the time. In the heart of town is the splendid Piazza del Popolo, one of the most beautiful squares in all of Italy, flanked by a religious complex and monumental public palaces: Palazzo del Popolo, one of Italy's oldest civic buildings, built in 1214–1228; Palazzo dei Priori, built between 1334 and 1347 in Gothic forms and with a square tower; Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo (late 13th century), with a spacious loggia and central pilaster on the ground floor; and the Cathedral, dating from the 12th century and enlarged in stages during the 13th and 14th centuries, next to which stands the Bishop's Palace. The Temple of San Fortunato (13th-15th century), set at the top of an imposing stairway, is a work of precious artistic merit, a remarkable example of the Umbrian Gothic style. Inside is the crypt that holds the remains of the friar-poet Jacopone da Todi and, in an isolated chapel, those of the town's patron saints: Fortunato, Callisto, Cassiano, Degna and Romana. Piazzale IV Novembre, the highest spot in town, with the ruins of the Rocca (fortress), which was destroyed in 1503, is an excellent vantage point for enjoying a splendid view of the Tiber River valley and of the surrounding countryside: from the massive walls of the Rocca's park it is still possible to see the remains of the castles that once formed a particularly effective defense network. One of the most impressive of these numerous outposts is the castle of Montenero, set in a dense pine wood overlooking the entire southern slope of the municipal territory. Sights nearby include the Church and Sanctuary of Merciful Love in Colvalenza, one of the most courageous examples of modern religious architecture in Italy, designed by Giulio Lafuente of Madrid and built in 1965. Many pilgrims come here today, and it is also used as a center for spiritual retreats and conventions. Also worthy of note is the Convent of Montesanto, a traditional-style religious building, famous for being the place where St. Bernardine went on retreat in the early 1400s: a linden tree planted before the church entrance on that occasion is still there today. A splendid altarpiece of the Coronation of the Virgin by Spagna was once above the altar, until the arrival of Napoleon's troops. The painting now adds to the collection at the very interesting and especially well-designed Picture Gallery Museum on the top floor of the Palazzo del Podestà and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo.
FOOD & WINE
The local cuisine, as all Umbria after all, leaves nothing to fate. On the tables of Todi’s families we will find for sure the “pan caciato” or “nociato”, namely a small round loaf of bread whose dough is made of nuts, cheese and raisin.
In winter the real delicacy is the “palomba alla ghiotta”: pigeons cooked on a spit that are generally accompanied by a good glass of Grechetto of Todi DOC, a wine that was even able to bewitch the great Pliny the Elder.
192 místní doporučují
Todi
Probably of ancient Umbrian origin, Todi was one of the towns in contact with the Etruscan civilization that flourished on the right bank of the Tiber River, and it was a thriving center in the 5th-4th centuries BC. In Roman times it was a colony and a municipium. Todi's lofty position and solid defense system saved it from destruction during the barbarian invasions, and it was able to live in relative peace during the turbulent early Middle Ages. In the 12th century it became an independent commune, the start of a very prosperous period, which saw the construction of many of its outstanding monuments. Its independence did not last long, however, due to the continuous fighting against Spoleto, Orvieto and Narni. In 1230 the leading religious poet of the 13th century was born in Todi: Jacopo Benedetti, better known as Jacopone da Todi. Political and military instability continued until the 16th century when, after being under various rules, Todi became part of the Papal States, remaining there (except for the Napoleonic period) until 1860.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
Todi is encircled by three concentric rings of walls, which provide evidence of the town's size in the Umbrian-Roman, Roman and medieval periods respectively. Just before entering the heart of the historic center, one encounters the impressive Temple of Santa Maria della Consolazione, one of the tallest Renaissance buildings in Umbria, begun in 1508 following a design attributed to Bramante and completed in 1617, with the contribution of the leading architects of the time. In the heart of town is the splendid Piazza del Popolo, one of the most beautiful squares in all of Italy, flanked by a religious complex and monumental public palaces: Palazzo del Popolo, one of Italy's oldest civic buildings, built in 1214–1228; Palazzo dei Priori, built between 1334 and 1347 in Gothic forms and with a square tower; Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo (late 13th century), with a spacious loggia and central pilaster on the ground floor; and the Cathedral, dating from the 12th century and enlarged in stages during the 13th and 14th centuries, next to which stands the Bishop's Palace. The Temple of San Fortunato (13th-15th century), set at the top of an imposing stairway, is a work of precious artistic merit, a remarkable example of the Umbrian Gothic style. Inside is the crypt that holds the remains of the friar-poet Jacopone da Todi and, in an isolated chapel, those of the town's patron saints: Fortunato, Callisto, Cassiano, Degna and Romana. Piazzale IV Novembre, the highest spot in town, with the ruins of the Rocca (fortress), which was destroyed in 1503, is an excellent vantage point for enjoying a splendid view of the Tiber River valley and of the surrounding countryside: from the massive walls of the Rocca's park it is still possible to see the remains of the castles that once formed a particularly effective defense network. One of the most impressive of these numerous outposts is the castle of Montenero, set in a dense pine wood overlooking the entire southern slope of the municipal territory. Sights nearby include the Church and Sanctuary of Merciful Love in Colvalenza, one of the most courageous examples of modern religious architecture in Italy, designed by Giulio Lafuente of Madrid and built in 1965. Many pilgrims come here today, and it is also used as a center for spiritual retreats and conventions. Also worthy of note is the Convent of Montesanto, a traditional-style religious building, famous for being the place where St. Bernardine went on retreat in the early 1400s: a linden tree planted before the church entrance on that occasion is still there today. A splendid altarpiece of the Coronation of the Virgin by Spagna was once above the altar, until the arrival of Napoleon's troops. The painting now adds to the collection at the very interesting and especially well-designed Picture Gallery Museum on the top floor of the Palazzo del Podestà and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo.
FOOD & WINE
The local cuisine, as all Umbria after all, leaves nothing to fate. On the tables of Todi’s families we will find for sure the “pan caciato” or “nociato”, namely a small round loaf of bread whose dough is made of nuts, cheese and raisin.
In winter the real delicacy is the “palomba alla ghiotta”: pigeons cooked on a spit that are generally accompanied by a good glass of Grechetto of Todi DOC, a wine that was even able to bewitch the great Pliny the Elder.
HISTORY
The village's Etruscan-Roman origins are confirmed by archeological findings in the area, although the earliest written documents date from the 10th century. In subsequent centuries Paciano was subject first to Chiusi and then to Perugia, which designated Paciano as a fortified border village.
ART AND CULTURE
Enclosed by a 14th-century circuit of walls with towers and three gates (Porta Fiorentina, Porta Perugina, and Porta Rastrella), the medieval village character of the historic center has been preserved intact. All that remains of the oldest castle are the ruins of a tower, called the Torre d'Orlando; architectural works of interest are the Buitoni fortress, Palazzo Cennini and Palazzo Baldeschi, home of the Nature Museum. There are numerous churches within the village, built in different periods: the oldest is that known as the Chiesa Dentro (or church of San Giuseppe), which has an old municipal gonfalon from the Bonfigli workshop, and the Church of San Carlo Borromeo, with an ornate 17th-century portal. Standing opposite the Porta Fiorentina is the parish church of the same name, erected prior to 1000 AD, surrounded by expanses of green that serve as a backdrop to the many events held here each year. Also of interest are the Church of the Madonna della Stella, built in 1572 after a pilgrim saw a star poised for three days above the image of the Virgin Mary, and the Museum of the Confraternity of the Most Holy Sacrament, which has a large number of religious works, including a large fresco of the Crucifixion by the painter Francesco Nicolò of Città della Pieve, statues and 16th-century reliquaries containing bones of the first martyrs, church ornaments, vestments and gospel books, and interesting Etruscan artifacts from the 4th century BC (pottery, lanterns, bucchero ware) found in the surrounding area. Nearby one finds the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Stella and, in Ceraseto, the small Church of San Salvatore, with a fresco from the 16th century by Caporali.
27 místní doporučují
Paciano
HISTORY
The village's Etruscan-Roman origins are confirmed by archeological findings in the area, although the earliest written documents date from the 10th century. In subsequent centuries Paciano was subject first to Chiusi and then to Perugia, which designated Paciano as a fortified border village.
ART AND CULTURE
Enclosed by a 14th-century circuit of walls with towers and three gates (Porta Fiorentina, Porta Perugina, and Porta Rastrella), the medieval village character of the historic center has been preserved intact. All that remains of the oldest castle are the ruins of a tower, called the Torre d'Orlando; architectural works of interest are the Buitoni fortress, Palazzo Cennini and Palazzo Baldeschi, home of the Nature Museum. There are numerous churches within the village, built in different periods: the oldest is that known as the Chiesa Dentro (or church of San Giuseppe), which has an old municipal gonfalon from the Bonfigli workshop, and the Church of San Carlo Borromeo, with an ornate 17th-century portal. Standing opposite the Porta Fiorentina is the parish church of the same name, erected prior to 1000 AD, surrounded by expanses of green that serve as a backdrop to the many events held here each year. Also of interest are the Church of the Madonna della Stella, built in 1572 after a pilgrim saw a star poised for three days above the image of the Virgin Mary, and the Museum of the Confraternity of the Most Holy Sacrament, which has a large number of religious works, including a large fresco of the Crucifixion by the painter Francesco Nicolò of Città della Pieve, statues and 16th-century reliquaries containing bones of the first martyrs, church ornaments, vestments and gospel books, and interesting Etruscan artifacts from the 4th century BC (pottery, lanterns, bucchero ware) found in the surrounding area. Nearby one finds the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Stella and, in Ceraseto, the small Church of San Salvatore, with a fresco from the 16th century by Caporali.
This sleepy little town on one of the southern most borders of Tuscany was one of the most important cities of the Etruscan empire between the 7th & 5th centuries BC. The town that lays before you now is an enchanting mix of Etruscan ingenuity, Roman prowess and Medieval struggles.
Perhaps the most suggestive tale is that of King Porsenna. His history is a conflicting mix of hearsay and legends but, the one real fact that stands out is that he truly did conquer Rome. His military courage and genius is the stuff bedtime stories are made of, including his funeral and final resting place. A legend passed down since medieval times, speaks of his sarcophagus being held inside a golden carriage with 12 horses and guarded by a hen and 5,000 chicks...all made of gold.
It is rumored that this treasure is hidden beneath the city in the crazy maze of tunnels that the Etruscans left behind (and that the Romans carelessly destroyed over the years.) And though rich with details from antique writings, the exact burial place and structure covering it have yet to be found.
The simple fact that Chiusi has survived in history as a fearsome power while located on a dominant hilltop without a direct water source, is a clear testimony to the creativity of the Etruscan population. Through the use of filtering tunnels and underground cisterns, they were able to gather water, increase their survival skills and rise to lofty political heights. They finally succumbed to the Roman siege, and found a way to co-habitate with the invading population. Unfortunately, the Romans saw little use for their labyrinth of tunnels and over the years they were discarded and deliberately trashed.
71 místní doporučují
Chiusi
This sleepy little town on one of the southern most borders of Tuscany was one of the most important cities of the Etruscan empire between the 7th & 5th centuries BC. The town that lays before you now is an enchanting mix of Etruscan ingenuity, Roman prowess and Medieval struggles.
Perhaps the most suggestive tale is that of King Porsenna. His history is a conflicting mix of hearsay and legends but, the one real fact that stands out is that he truly did conquer Rome. His military courage and genius is the stuff bedtime stories are made of, including his funeral and final resting place. A legend passed down since medieval times, speaks of his sarcophagus being held inside a golden carriage with 12 horses and guarded by a hen and 5,000 chicks...all made of gold.
It is rumored that this treasure is hidden beneath the city in the crazy maze of tunnels that the Etruscans left behind (and that the Romans carelessly destroyed over the years.) And though rich with details from antique writings, the exact burial place and structure covering it have yet to be found.
The simple fact that Chiusi has survived in history as a fearsome power while located on a dominant hilltop without a direct water source, is a clear testimony to the creativity of the Etruscan population. Through the use of filtering tunnels and underground cisterns, they were able to gather water, increase their survival skills and rise to lofty political heights. They finally succumbed to the Roman siege, and found a way to co-habitate with the invading population. Unfortunately, the Romans saw little use for their labyrinth of tunnels and over the years they were discarded and deliberately trashed.
Cortona is a small charming town in the Valdichiana, or Chiana Valley, in the province of Arezzo in southern Tuscany. The city, enclosed by stone walls dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, sits on the top of a hill about 600 meters (about 1968 feet) above sea level. This dominant position over the valley offers a spectacular view from all over the town of the surrounding valley and even Lake Trasimeno.
The city is small but offers many interesting places to visit, among these the Diocesan Museum (where you can admire a beautiful panel painting of the Annunciation by Beato Angelico) and the MAEC (The Etruscan Academy Museum of the City of Cortona), where it is possible to see many artifacts found in the Eruscan archeological sites in the area. You can also request additional information about the Archeological Park at the museum.
You should not miss a visit to the beautiful Santa Margherita Sanctuary, patron of the city, and to the Girifalco Fortress. Both are on the highest point on the hill and are easy to reach after a short, uphill walk. Following the path that follows the city walls, you can also enjoy a beautiful view over the surrounding countryside. The Girifalco Fortress, constructed for military purposes, has undergone many substantial changes throughout the centuries and today only a part is open to the public.
Various small shops on the main streets of Cortona offer local handmade items and gastronomical products. Great red wines are made in the area (we are just a few kilometers from Montepulciano and Montalcino) and all of the wine bars offer a wide selection.
There are many restaurants in the city, most offering traditional local and Tuscan cuisine (the Chianina cattle, one of Italy's oldest, high quality bovine breeds is bred in Valdichiana).
Just outside of Cortona's walls you'll find the Franciscan hermitage Le Celle, the first monastery built by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1211, where a small community of friars still lives today. Through the course of the centuries, the hermitage was restructured and enlarged several times but Saint Francis's small cell has always been conserved in its original state and can be visited today.
499 místní doporučují
Cortona
Cortona is a small charming town in the Valdichiana, or Chiana Valley, in the province of Arezzo in southern Tuscany. The city, enclosed by stone walls dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, sits on the top of a hill about 600 meters (about 1968 feet) above sea level. This dominant position over the valley offers a spectacular view from all over the town of the surrounding valley and even Lake Trasimeno.
The city is small but offers many interesting places to visit, among these the Diocesan Museum (where you can admire a beautiful panel painting of the Annunciation by Beato Angelico) and the MAEC (The Etruscan Academy Museum of the City of Cortona), where it is possible to see many artifacts found in the Eruscan archeological sites in the area. You can also request additional information about the Archeological Park at the museum.
You should not miss a visit to the beautiful Santa Margherita Sanctuary, patron of the city, and to the Girifalco Fortress. Both are on the highest point on the hill and are easy to reach after a short, uphill walk. Following the path that follows the city walls, you can also enjoy a beautiful view over the surrounding countryside. The Girifalco Fortress, constructed for military purposes, has undergone many substantial changes throughout the centuries and today only a part is open to the public.
Various small shops on the main streets of Cortona offer local handmade items and gastronomical products. Great red wines are made in the area (we are just a few kilometers from Montepulciano and Montalcino) and all of the wine bars offer a wide selection.
There are many restaurants in the city, most offering traditional local and Tuscan cuisine (the Chianina cattle, one of Italy's oldest, high quality bovine breeds is bred in Valdichiana).
Just outside of Cortona's walls you'll find the Franciscan hermitage Le Celle, the first monastery built by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1211, where a small community of friars still lives today. Through the course of the centuries, the hermitage was restructured and enlarged several times but Saint Francis's small cell has always been conserved in its original state and can be visited today.
Great place to visit and not to be missed. Take your walking shoes, set on a mountain with steep streets.
Great for shopping, small unique Italian shops for food, clothes and shoes.
Good food and local Tuscan wine.
Standing high atop a hill in southern Tuscany not too far from Siena, Montepulciano is a medieval town of rare beauty highly recommended visiting in Tuscany. The city, full of elegant Renaissance palaces, ancient churches, charming squares and hidden corners, boasts vast panoramas all over the wonderful Val d'Orcia and Val di Chiana valleys that surround it.
Montepulciano's strategic position makes it a perfect base from which to explore this beautiful corner of Tuscany; from here, you can reach the charming Pienza, the thermal village of Bagno Vignoni, the famous Montalcino and a lot of other enchanting villages in a very short time.
Just be prepared to share the town: Montepulciano has received great attention following the filming of the vampire saga Twilight sequel New Moon here and has seen a notable increase in visitors.
Piazza Grande is the heart of Montepulciano and the setting for its main events, including the barrel-racing Bravio delle Botti contest held in August every year and much more. A walk through Montepulciano is the best way to view the town and its beautiful landmarks as well as enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside covered by vineyards producing the famous Nobile!
526 místní doporučují
Montepulciano
Great place to visit and not to be missed. Take your walking shoes, set on a mountain with steep streets.
Great for shopping, small unique Italian shops for food, clothes and shoes.
Good food and local Tuscan wine.
Standing high atop a hill in southern Tuscany not too far from Siena, Montepulciano is a medieval town of rare beauty highly recommended visiting in Tuscany. The city, full of elegant Renaissance palaces, ancient churches, charming squares and hidden corners, boasts vast panoramas all over the wonderful Val d'Orcia and Val di Chiana valleys that surround it.
Montepulciano's strategic position makes it a perfect base from which to explore this beautiful corner of Tuscany; from here, you can reach the charming Pienza, the thermal village of Bagno Vignoni, the famous Montalcino and a lot of other enchanting villages in a very short time.
Just be prepared to share the town: Montepulciano has received great attention following the filming of the vampire saga Twilight sequel New Moon here and has seen a notable increase in visitors.
Piazza Grande is the heart of Montepulciano and the setting for its main events, including the barrel-racing Bravio delle Botti contest held in August every year and much more. A walk through Montepulciano is the best way to view the town and its beautiful landmarks as well as enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside covered by vineyards producing the famous Nobile!
Chianciano Terme, one of the most famous thermal bath cities in Europe, sits at the border between the Val d’Orcia and the Valdichiana, the perfect position for enjoying some of Tuscany’s best splendours. Chianciano fascinates the visitor with both its historic city center and its thermal baths – rich in mineral waters known for their therapeutic properties. Historic Chianciano is protected by a defensive wall and is connected to the new part via Viale della Libertà. Once you’ve reached the center, you should definitely visit the majestic castle that once belonged to the Manenti Counts, known as the Monastero, and the beautiful Clock Tower.
Chianciano is nestled amidst hills covered in oak, beech, holly oak and chestnut trees in a setting that has maintained a significant amount of greenery over the centuries, both in the thermal parks and the public gardens, and which is home to a number of villas and hotels. Scanning the landscape beyond Chianciano, you can admire the peaks of the Cetona and Amiata mountains and catch a glimpse of the three lakes in Chiusi, Montepulciano and Trasimeno. But, of course, Chianciano is most famous for its thermal baths, like those of Santa, Fucoli e Sillene, whose waters have made this place a true “city for well-being”.
54 místní doporučují
Chianciano Terme
Chianciano Terme, one of the most famous thermal bath cities in Europe, sits at the border between the Val d’Orcia and the Valdichiana, the perfect position for enjoying some of Tuscany’s best splendours. Chianciano fascinates the visitor with both its historic city center and its thermal baths – rich in mineral waters known for their therapeutic properties. Historic Chianciano is protected by a defensive wall and is connected to the new part via Viale della Libertà. Once you’ve reached the center, you should definitely visit the majestic castle that once belonged to the Manenti Counts, known as the Monastero, and the beautiful Clock Tower.
Chianciano is nestled amidst hills covered in oak, beech, holly oak and chestnut trees in a setting that has maintained a significant amount of greenery over the centuries, both in the thermal parks and the public gardens, and which is home to a number of villas and hotels. Scanning the landscape beyond Chianciano, you can admire the peaks of the Cetona and Amiata mountains and catch a glimpse of the three lakes in Chiusi, Montepulciano and Trasimeno. But, of course, Chianciano is most famous for its thermal baths, like those of Santa, Fucoli e Sillene, whose waters have made this place a true “city for well-being”.
HISTORY
The Etruscans lived here in the VI century BCE, followed by the Romans, and in 1136 the castrum of Corciano was listed as one of the possessions Pope Innocence II confirmed ownership of in a report to the bishop of Perugia. In 1223, Saint Francis was on his way back from Maggiore Island on Lake Trasimeno, where he had spent Lent, and stopped in Corciano. In memory of his passing through town, according to tradition, construction was begun on the Church of San Francesco. In 1334 a Papal Bull issued by Pope John XXII authorised the building of a monastic complex for the Augustinians. In 1364, the castle was sacked by the Compagnia Bianca in the service of the Papal Legate, Egidio Albornoz. In 1416, the soldier of fortune Braccio Fortebraccio da Montone conquered Corciano after a long siege. In 1482 they began construction on the tower of Porta Santa Maria to bolster the defences of the castle. In 1860, it became part of the Kingdom of Italy.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
High city walls enclose the medieval castle of Corciano, a town steeped in history and rich with works of art. It is a town of narrow streets, stairs, palazzos, towers, gardens, churches and bell towers, all set in a framework of intact medieval allure.
Not to be missed: in the historical centre is the tower of Porta Santa Maria, the main Piazza Coragino with its XVI century water well, City Hall, once the residence of the Corgna Dukes in the XVI century, the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Palazzo dei Priori, the church of Santa Maria Assunta, which houses a painting by Il Perugino entitled Assunta (1513) and the city banner painted in 1472 by Benedetto Bonfigli, and, finally, the Gothic-style Church-cum-museum of San Francesco, home to frescoes dating back to the late XIII-early XIV century. Under its floor are 21 family tombs closed with stone slabs that bear the heraldic shields of the town's most important families.
Another point of interest is the church of Sant'Agostino (1334), set on top of a hill dotted with olive trees facing the hill on which Corciano rises. It is home to various paintings from the XVIII century and wooden statues of the patron saints San Michele Arcangelo, San Sebastiano, San Rocco and San Macario.
Inside Corciano you can visit the XVI century Church of San Cristoforo, the museum of the Pievania and in a typical home in the centre, on Via Tarragone, is the peasant's house museum.
Outside the walls, on Via Cornaletto, in a modern building destined to become a cultural centre of great importance for the region, is the Antiquarium, which houses paleontological, prehistoric, Etruscan and Roman relics from all over the surrounding area.
In the environs of the town, aside from the Strozzacapponi Etruscan necropolis, the magnificent castle of Pieve del Vescovo, restored and turned into a villa designed by the architect Galeazzo Alessi in 1570, is also well worth a visit. As is the little church dedicated to Saint John, home to a lovely fresco by the artists of the school of Il Perugino. Other major points of interest are the castles of San Mariano, Mantignana and Solomeo, a beautifully renovated town, Chiugiana, Castelvieto, Capocavallo and Migiana, where there is a quarry of great paleontological interest with numerous ammonite fossils.
The region around Corciano is home to an environmental and naturalistic heritage of importance on a European scale. From the town you can enjoy wonderful views that span from the verdant tops of Monte Malbe, Monte Tezio and Monte Acuto to that of far away Monte Amiata, which on clear days is visible in the distance. The top of Monte Malbe, known as Colle della Trinità, is a wooded area of typical Mediterranean vegetation and includes several different species: holm, turkey and sessile oak trees, arbutus and juniper.
34 místní doporučují
Corciano
HISTORY
The Etruscans lived here in the VI century BCE, followed by the Romans, and in 1136 the castrum of Corciano was listed as one of the possessions Pope Innocence II confirmed ownership of in a report to the bishop of Perugia. In 1223, Saint Francis was on his way back from Maggiore Island on Lake Trasimeno, where he had spent Lent, and stopped in Corciano. In memory of his passing through town, according to tradition, construction was begun on the Church of San Francesco. In 1334 a Papal Bull issued by Pope John XXII authorised the building of a monastic complex for the Augustinians. In 1364, the castle was sacked by the Compagnia Bianca in the service of the Papal Legate, Egidio Albornoz. In 1416, the soldier of fortune Braccio Fortebraccio da Montone conquered Corciano after a long siege. In 1482 they began construction on the tower of Porta Santa Maria to bolster the defences of the castle. In 1860, it became part of the Kingdom of Italy.
ART, CULTURE, ENVIRONMENT
High city walls enclose the medieval castle of Corciano, a town steeped in history and rich with works of art. It is a town of narrow streets, stairs, palazzos, towers, gardens, churches and bell towers, all set in a framework of intact medieval allure.
Not to be missed: in the historical centre is the tower of Porta Santa Maria, the main Piazza Coragino with its XVI century water well, City Hall, once the residence of the Corgna Dukes in the XVI century, the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and the Palazzo dei Priori, the church of Santa Maria Assunta, which houses a painting by Il Perugino entitled Assunta (1513) and the city banner painted in 1472 by Benedetto Bonfigli, and, finally, the Gothic-style Church-cum-museum of San Francesco, home to frescoes dating back to the late XIII-early XIV century. Under its floor are 21 family tombs closed with stone slabs that bear the heraldic shields of the town's most important families.
Another point of interest is the church of Sant'Agostino (1334), set on top of a hill dotted with olive trees facing the hill on which Corciano rises. It is home to various paintings from the XVIII century and wooden statues of the patron saints San Michele Arcangelo, San Sebastiano, San Rocco and San Macario.
Inside Corciano you can visit the XVI century Church of San Cristoforo, the museum of the Pievania and in a typical home in the centre, on Via Tarragone, is the peasant's house museum.
Outside the walls, on Via Cornaletto, in a modern building destined to become a cultural centre of great importance for the region, is the Antiquarium, which houses paleontological, prehistoric, Etruscan and Roman relics from all over the surrounding area.
In the environs of the town, aside from the Strozzacapponi Etruscan necropolis, the magnificent castle of Pieve del Vescovo, restored and turned into a villa designed by the architect Galeazzo Alessi in 1570, is also well worth a visit. As is the little church dedicated to Saint John, home to a lovely fresco by the artists of the school of Il Perugino. Other major points of interest are the castles of San Mariano, Mantignana and Solomeo, a beautifully renovated town, Chiugiana, Castelvieto, Capocavallo and Migiana, where there is a quarry of great paleontological interest with numerous ammonite fossils.
The region around Corciano is home to an environmental and naturalistic heritage of importance on a European scale. From the town you can enjoy wonderful views that span from the verdant tops of Monte Malbe, Monte Tezio and Monte Acuto to that of far away Monte Amiata, which on clear days is visible in the distance. The top of Monte Malbe, known as Colle della Trinità, is a wooded area of typical Mediterranean vegetation and includes several different species: holm, turkey and sessile oak trees, arbutus and juniper.
Lake Trasimeno is a true natural paradise in the northern part of Umbria on the border with Tuscany.
It is the fourth largest lake in Italy and was named after the ancient legend of prince Trasimeno and his love for nymph Agylle. Lord Byron compared it to a "silver veil" and, over the centuries, the lake has charmed many poets, painters and travellers.
It became a Regional Park in 1995 and is characterised by a marshy area where, among lush reeds, you can spot wild ducks, cormorants, kites and kingfishers. The lake has in fact always been an important area where aquatic birdlife can stop, reproduce and spend the winter and is the perfect habitat for fish species to reproduce.
To learn more about the history of this wildlife and discover the secrets of the fishermen and their tools we suggest visiting the San Feliciano Fishing Museum in Magione. If you are interested in the boats that fishermen used going back to medieval times you can pay a visit to the Boat museum in Passignano.
If you are a history enthusiast, plan your holiday following in the footsteps of Hannibal's battle of Lake Trasimeno.
If you wish to practice open-air sports you are spoilt for choice - there are bike and horse trails and you can do water sports such as kitesurfing, canoeing and sailing.
Any time is perfect to be charmed by one of the towns that surround lake Trasimeno: Castiglione del Lago, Paciano, Panicale, Piegaro, Città della Pieve, Magione, Passignano sul Trasimeno, Lisciano Niccone and Tuoro sul Trasimeno are either directly on the lakeside or overlook it from the hills. Enjoy a trip to the Maggiore and Polvese islands, which can be easily reached by boat the whole year round.
If you like good food, you can savour excellent freshwater fish dishes - eel, perch and tench in particular - and try Fagiolina del Trasimeno, Slow Food Presidium, and Saffron from Città della Pieve.
Among the typical local products there is also olive oil and wine, which you can enjoy along the "Strada dei vini dei Colli del Trasimeno" (Wine Route of the Trasimeno Hills)
The Trasimeno area is famous for the Irish lace of Isola Maggiore, Panicale's Tulle creations and the art of weaving baskets with lake reed.
353 místní doporučují
Lago Trasimeno
Lake Trasimeno is a true natural paradise in the northern part of Umbria on the border with Tuscany.
It is the fourth largest lake in Italy and was named after the ancient legend of prince Trasimeno and his love for nymph Agylle. Lord Byron compared it to a "silver veil" and, over the centuries, the lake has charmed many poets, painters and travellers.
It became a Regional Park in 1995 and is characterised by a marshy area where, among lush reeds, you can spot wild ducks, cormorants, kites and kingfishers. The lake has in fact always been an important area where aquatic birdlife can stop, reproduce and spend the winter and is the perfect habitat for fish species to reproduce.
To learn more about the history of this wildlife and discover the secrets of the fishermen and their tools we suggest visiting the San Feliciano Fishing Museum in Magione. If you are interested in the boats that fishermen used going back to medieval times you can pay a visit to the Boat museum in Passignano.
If you are a history enthusiast, plan your holiday following in the footsteps of Hannibal's battle of Lake Trasimeno.
If you wish to practice open-air sports you are spoilt for choice - there are bike and horse trails and you can do water sports such as kitesurfing, canoeing and sailing.
Any time is perfect to be charmed by one of the towns that surround lake Trasimeno: Castiglione del Lago, Paciano, Panicale, Piegaro, Città della Pieve, Magione, Passignano sul Trasimeno, Lisciano Niccone and Tuoro sul Trasimeno are either directly on the lakeside or overlook it from the hills. Enjoy a trip to the Maggiore and Polvese islands, which can be easily reached by boat the whole year round.
If you like good food, you can savour excellent freshwater fish dishes - eel, perch and tench in particular - and try Fagiolina del Trasimeno, Slow Food Presidium, and Saffron from Città della Pieve.
Among the typical local products there is also olive oil and wine, which you can enjoy along the "Strada dei vini dei Colli del Trasimeno" (Wine Route of the Trasimeno Hills)
The Trasimeno area is famous for the Irish lace of Isola Maggiore, Panicale's Tulle creations and the art of weaving baskets with lake reed.
Walking distance from the house or 10 minutes drive to the other side of the lake. You can see the lake from the balcony of our house, amazing views in sunset.
Just a ‘stone’s throw’ from well-known towns such as Pienza and Montepulciano, and close to the borders with Umbria, the small lake of Chiusi sits in a basin between hills, and permits visitors a peek into its tranquil world. If you happen to be in the area, it is definitely worth stopping by. If you’re a bit of a naturalist, here is an unspoilt, protected lake with as much ‘natural goings-on’ as you would hope to find. If you’re there at the right time, you may spot various forms of aquatic life from the wooden jetties: carps, eels, perches or tenches as well as a surprise, as I myself had. I was fortunate enough to witness a snake slide into the water to snatch a fish, and hastily retreat back to its shelter under an upturned boat at the water’s edge.
Fishing is allowed with a daily, weekly or annual licence. Have a look at www.lenzaetrusca.it or ask your nearest Tourist Information Office for more information. There is plenty of wild fowl too, some taking time out from paddling and wandering around whilst others patrol the lake in small groups. Close your eyes, listen and have a go at guessing whether the calls you hear are from herons, moorhens, coots, ducks or geese.
If wildlife is not entirely ‘your cup of tea’, try relaxing by the lakeside having a picnic. There are sheltered areas, as well as tables with seating and room for sunbathing, even an area available for volleyball or badminton. Yet it is still calm. Should you have not felt like putting a picnic together, there are two small lakeside restaurants, both with menus including fish from the lake. One very popular example is ‘Brustico’ or barbecued fish, the recipe originated in ancient times. It has been discovered that, way back during the Etruscan period, the fishermen naturally took advantage of the lakes supply of fish, which they would then place onto a grid above very hot embers on top a bed of reeds to cook it: the ancient and original mode of barbecuing. The burnt skin was carefully removed as well as bones and entrails and the deliciously cooked flesh seasoned with a drizzle of olive oil, a little lemon juice or vinegar, salt and pepper.
22 místní doporučují
Lago di Chiusi (SI)
36 Localita SbarchinoWalking distance from the house or 10 minutes drive to the other side of the lake. You can see the lake from the balcony of our house, amazing views in sunset.
Just a ‘stone’s throw’ from well-known towns such as Pienza and Montepulciano, and close to the borders with Umbria, the small lake of Chiusi sits in a basin between hills, and permits visitors a peek into its tranquil world. If you happen to be in the area, it is definitely worth stopping by. If you’re a bit of a naturalist, here is an unspoilt, protected lake with as much ‘natural goings-on’ as you would hope to find. If you’re there at the right time, you may spot various forms of aquatic life from the wooden jetties: carps, eels, perches or tenches as well as a surprise, as I myself had. I was fortunate enough to witness a snake slide into the water to snatch a fish, and hastily retreat back to its shelter under an upturned boat at the water’s edge.
Fishing is allowed with a daily, weekly or annual licence. Have a look at www.lenzaetrusca.it or ask your nearest Tourist Information Office for more information. There is plenty of wild fowl too, some taking time out from paddling and wandering around whilst others patrol the lake in small groups. Close your eyes, listen and have a go at guessing whether the calls you hear are from herons, moorhens, coots, ducks or geese.
If wildlife is not entirely ‘your cup of tea’, try relaxing by the lakeside having a picnic. There are sheltered areas, as well as tables with seating and room for sunbathing, even an area available for volleyball or badminton. Yet it is still calm. Should you have not felt like putting a picnic together, there are two small lakeside restaurants, both with menus including fish from the lake. One very popular example is ‘Brustico’ or barbecued fish, the recipe originated in ancient times. It has been discovered that, way back during the Etruscan period, the fishermen naturally took advantage of the lakes supply of fish, which they would then place onto a grid above very hot embers on top a bed of reeds to cook it: the ancient and original mode of barbecuing. The burnt skin was carefully removed as well as bones and entrails and the deliciously cooked flesh seasoned with a drizzle of olive oil, a little lemon juice or vinegar, salt and pepper.