Perugia
Clung on a hill, it is one of the most beautiful Italian towns. Its Etruscan walls,
medieval churches, 16th century and baroque palaces still witness its splendor in the
past. Art center but also lively and cosmopolitan, it is a university town and venue of
art and cultural exhibitions
Perugia City Guide
Assisi
Perched on Mount Subasio, it dominates the green Umbrian plain. Saint
Francis and Saint Claire were born here and today it is one of the most important places
of pilgrimage for Christianity. International tourist center for its cultural and natural
beauties, it is an ideal resting-place to relax, with excellent hotels and cozy farm
houses.
Not to be missed: the 13th century church of San Francesco, one of the most
important shrines in the world for Christians and the gothic church of Santa Chiara.
Gubbio
Gubbio is a very ancient Umbrian town. From an architectural point of view it
represents the masterpiece of medieval civilization and 13-14th century society.
Everywhere you can see perfectly preserved towers, austere facades blackened by the time,
gothic churches and palaces which are the symbols of the power of this medieval
city-state.
Its black truffles are very renowned among gourmands.
Not to be missed: Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo dei Consoli, Palazzo del capitano del
Popolo.
Lake Trasimeno
It is the greatest lake basin in peninsular Italy and one of the largest in Italy. Its
name is connected with one of the most celebrated battles of the ancient times, fought
between Hannibal and the Romans. Its calm banks are scarcely populated. Three islands: -
Maggiore, Minore and Polvese,- emerge from its waters which are rimmed with reed thickets
and are remarkably full of fish.
Orvieto
Situated on the top of a rock, from which you can enjoy a splendid view on the
beautiful hilly landscape below. It preserves its medieval structure with narrow and
winding lanes and low houses.
Not to be missed: the Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian gothic architecture,
Palazzo del Popolo and the famous S. Patrizio well.
Spoleto
Perched on a hillock, in a green Umbrian valley, it has a typically medieval town
center. Every year in summer it becomes the stage of the "Festival of the two
worlds" a very important classical music show.
Not to be missed: In the town center, the Cathedral, the church of S. Eufemia, the
Arch of Druso. Outside the walls: the Bridge of the Towers, which can be crossed on foot
and the early Christian basilica of S. Salvatore.
Todi
One of the most beautiful Umbrian towns, perched on a hill. Founded by the Etruscans,
it became a Roman town and during the Middle Ages it was a free city-state. The tour of
the town is of the utmost interest for the beauty of its monuments, the ancient remains of
the walls and the medieval look of its town center.
Not to be missed: Palazzo dei Priori, Palazzo del Popolo, the Catedral, the Church
of San Fortunato, the Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione.
