Umbria
Umbria, the Italy’s Medieval Mecca
In the very heart of Italy, we find Umbria, an unparalleled region of deep valleys set between bright green and colorful mountain slopes of various vegetations. But the true enchantment of this region comes from the combination of this abundant plant life on the rolling hills fused with art of the Renaissance and Medieval details in the region’s small towns. First, we will discuss the cities and towns that make Umbria a perfect place to visit. They are well-endowed with history and culture, leaving no shortage of sites to enjoy. Next, we will dive into some magical sites from lakes to forests that characterize this region.
Perugia
Dating back to Antiquity, Perguia is a cultural hub, equipped with a magnificent center of culture, and internationally known expos and universities. It’s wide range of museums and architectural landmarks are innumerable. On the top of a hill, the city spills over the slopes to smaller towns.
Assisi
The town of Assisi is a must-visit of Umbria. It’s Medieval roots come forth through its annual festival, Calendimaggio, which commemorates the many centuries of history the town has experienced. The festival lasts a few days, usually in May and transforms the people of the town into the knights and ladies of the past. The town is also an UNESCO World Heritage Site and is focused around the Patron Saint of Italy, St. Francis.
Gubbio
Another village, home to some incredible festivals and cultural wonders is the town of Gubbio. It’s the oldest village in Umbria, which is celebrated through the Palio Balestra, and also the Candle Race, or Festa dei Ceri, dedicated to the Patron Saint. Ubaldo
Orvieto
This small city is where an engineering masterpiece is held, St. Patrick’s Well, or the Pozzo di San Patrizio. The well is 62 meters deep with two separate spiral staircases which circulate around the well but never touch! The duomo of Orvieto is also a famous site to see in the area known for its Gothic style.
Spoleto
Ok, we saved one of the best for last! Just kidding, they’re all pretty incredible but Spoleto has its very own charm. It’s a cultural center for the highly recognized the Festival of Two Worlds, or Festival dei Due Mondi. This festival takes place here due to its 1,000 year old history and variety of ancient sites like theaters and its famous duomo.
Fossil Forest
The Fossil Forest, or Foresta fossile di Dunarobba, is a 3 million year old forest! Today the trunks are still preserved and is considered one of the most unique paleontological sites in the world.
Lake Trasimeno
Umbria is also home to central Italy’s largest lake! Evidence of the Etruscan civilization is present in the area near Castiglione del Lago, an Italian town on the west bank of the lake. The lake’s calm surface and romantic architecture together allows for an amazing picturesque scene.
Waterfalls and water sports
The Cascate delle Marmore near Trevi give way to the River Nera. This 165 meter waterfall is the perfect area for kayaking, canoeing, and other sport-related activities. Venture out into the beauty of the surroundings and into the waterfall area for a mental photograph that is sure to be engrained on your memory for years to come.
Discover the beauty of Umbria through many of these small, particular sites and all those in between. It’s the only Italian region without coastline so they’ve somewhat perfected the lake and inland village type of culture. But don’t take our word for it, experience it for yourself. You’ll be glad you did!
