Short guide to Umbria
Positioned in the heart of Italy, Umbria is mostly a hilly region, very rich in rivers and lakes and vegetation, and therefore known as the “green heart of Italy”. Other than its rich landscapes, Umbria also boasts some of the most noble medieval towns in the country, famous for their history, art and traditions, such as Perugia, Orvieto, Todi, and Assisi, Gubbio and Spoleto, Deruta and Gualdo Tadino.
Perugia
Perugia was a very important Etruscan city, as can be seen by monuments such as the Etruscan Arch, Porta Marzia and the Etruscan Well.
In the 2nd century AC Emperor Octavian assaulted and conquered the city, renaming it “Augusta Perusia”. After the fall of the Roman Empire the city was invaded several times, until it became a free commune in the 11th century. During that period the city assumed the urban structure it still displays today, and was enriched with splendid buildings and remarkable sculptures and paintings. An important university town, today Perugia is one of the liveliest cities in central Italy, all the while preserving its past historical aspect.
Assisi
The city of Assisi is perched on a rocky spur of Mount Subasio. St. Francis was born there in 1181. The city is entirely surrounded by walls. The main access is Porta San Francesco, which opens into the ancient town.
The basilica of St. Francis was probably designed by Friar Elia, and was started in 1228. It consists of two churches, the lower and the higher basilicas, the home of important works of art by Simone Martini, Giotto, Cimabue and Pietro Lorenzetti.
The crypt in the lower basilica houses the body of St. Francis.
Deruta and Gualdo Tadino
The Umbrian cities of Deruta and Gualdo Tadino are famous for their ceramic and majolica pottery. If this subject is particularly dear to you we suggest a visit to the Museum of Ceramics (Palazzo Comunale of Deruta).
Its collection includes medieval and Renaissance ceramics and objects produced in the 19th and 20th century. The most precious item of the collection is the majolica floor of the church of St. Francis, recovered in 1902.
Gubbio
Perched on St. Ubaldo’s mountain, Gubbio is protected by massive walls almost 3 kilometers long. The medieval burg is fascinating, with its perfectly preserved stone houses and narrow streets converging into larger ones.
Orvieto
There are many reasons why Orvieto is one of the most famous cities in the world: its splendid artworks, excellent wines, local traditions, religious festivals and artisan activities kept alive for centuries until they became true art forms, such as ceramic and lace. From among its innumerable works of art the Duomo (13th century) stands out with a façade which is a jewel of gothic architecture.