Spoleto

On a foothill of the Apennines is Spoleto, a stunning Umbrian hill town. Behind its medieval fortress lies a plethora of treats. Take the wonderful Duomo, set against hills and valleys, housing a letter written by Francis of Assissi, or the Roman theatre ruins as a start. Then there’s the wonderful Roman arches and mosaics. Above the town is a medieval Rocca – a fortifiable stronghold, over which you’ll see the fantastic Ponte delle Torri, or Bridge of Towers – well worth seeing. And, with many fine restaurants in Spoleto, including traditional osterias and romantic tavernas in the shadows of the spectacular duomo, you’ll be spoilt for choice. But, it is its festival in June and July that really puts Spoleto on the map. The grand Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of two worlds) is a 17-day summer extravaganza. Prepare to be amazed as churches, piazzas and theatres are turned into festival venues, showcasing opera, dance, music and art. This is a festival you don’t want to miss.