Why Umbria?
Perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the rivers
and valleys below gives Montefalco its nickname of the Balcony of Umbria. A
popular destination for wine lovers, tourists
can arrange visits to the wineries and vineyards throughout the year. The last
weekend in May is designated as Cantine Aperte when wineries open their doors
for tastings along with food and music. On Sundays throughout the summer, many
wineries welcome visitors and professional guides will take tourists on a tour
of several wineries. In June, the Settimana Enologica is a ten-day event
celebrating wine, and in September grape harvest celebrations are held.
In southern Umbria, Orvieto is a favourite for many who
visit the region and is famous for its white wines. From this hilltop city,
visitors can take pleasure in the gorgeous views of the valleys below, dotted
with small towns and vineyards. In addition to the wines, restaurants and shops
selling handcrafted gifts, ceramics and local foods, there are a few other
attractions not to miss. Orvietos Duomo is in the heart of the city and has
one of the most elaborate Gothic-style facades seen in Italy, and houses some
famous frescos (murals painted on a wet plaster surface). Also on the central
piazza is the Musei Faina e Civico features a collection of Etruscan artefacts,
and you can find other remnants of Etruscan
history at the Pozzo della Cava.
In October, the Orvieto con Gusto takes place over eight days dedicated to
Italian food and wine.
Gubbio
Gubbio is one of Umbrias oldest towns and is considered to
be quintessentially Umbrian with its hilly streets and ancient art. The
Municipal Museum located in the Consul Palace is one of the towns most
prominent attractions and is home to the Eugubine Tablets ancient slabs with
Umbrian inscriptions. Gubbio also hosts several events throughout the year. The
traditional Crossbow Festival takes place in May and features a competition and
parade. Late in the year, Gubbio celebrates truffles, a popular delicacy in
Umbria. The White Truffle Fair takes place in late October and early November.
During the festival, truffles and other local delicacies are available to
sample.
Perugia
A bustling town famous for chocolate and festivals, Perugia
is a vibrant city in Umbria. There are many narrow, twisty roads which lead you
to the heart of the city, the Corso Vannucci, where Perugians take their
nightly passeggiata,
an evening stroll before they dine, which visitors are encouraged to take part in. The city has several attractions, one being
the National Gallery of Umbrian Art, considered to be one of the best in the
country for Renaissance art. Another popular attraction is the Rocca Paolina,
an underground fortress. You can wander the ruins and check out an ancient
Etruscan gate. In July, the ten-day Umbria Jazz Festival is held drawing musicians and music lovers from
around the world to Perugia. It features parades, concerts, food and wine. In
October, there is the annual Eurochocolate Festival,
featuring tastings and cooking classes.
Spoleto
The town of Spoleto has several attractions and its Festival of Two Worlds in July that draws in
the tourists. The month-long festival features all aspects of art, with
concerts, opera, dance, films, and theatre bringing visitors from all over the
world. Other attractions include the 14th-century Ponte delle Torri bridge which provides panoramic
views of the lush green valley surrounding Spoleto. The main Duomo, or
cathedral in Spoleto is also an impressive sight. Constructed in the Roman style, the interior is home to various
stunning frescos.
Images by: Blackcat, Torsten Henning, Adonovan, Scudsone, Deblu68, Leonardo Angelini