Orvieto
The fascinating town of Orvieto is located in southern Umbria. It is built on a tuff volcanic mountain dominating the countryside. Orvieto Gothic Duomo, built in 1263, is one of the most fascinating Gothic cathedrals in Italy; its chapel is painted by the famous artists Luca Signorelli. Tens of Medieval churches and buildings, such as Palazzo dei Sette, Palazzo Comunale and Torre del Moro Tower, enrich the town. Moreover, it exists an underground Orvieto, featuring 1200 rooms and corridors. These caves represent a labyrinth in history, worthing a visit. On the main road, called Corso, there are beautiful shops and restaurants.
Orvieto countryside is wild, cultivated with olive trees and vines, covered by chestnut forests. The Parco Fluviale del Tevere (Tiber Natural Reserve) is an ideal place for a long walk, among woods, valleys and breathtaking panoramic spots.
Todi
Todi is a charming Medieval town with a long history behind. It was dominated by Umbrian people, Etruscans and Romans. The town overlooks the country and it is surrounded by Etruscan fortified walls, increased by Roman and during the Middle Ages. Todi features important historic spots, such as the charming Piazza Maggiore, with its Palazzo della Signoria –an ideal place for a lazy day. Among other places to visit: the Cathedral, Palazzo del Capitano, the Church of San Fortunato and the Church of San Carlo. Just outside the walls of Todi stands the magnificent Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione (1503), possibly built by Bramante. This temple is considered one of the most beautiful of the Italian Renaissance. The view on the valley of Todi is splendid.
Spoleto
Spoleto was founded as a settlement along the road Via Flaminia by Romans; today you can see the ruins of the Roman market. But Spoleto is mostly a Medieval town, influenced by Lombards and by the Roman Popes. It features a fascinating atmosphere and ancient buildings, such as the Arch of Druso (23 AD), the Roman Theatre and the Basilica di San Salvatore. The Cathedral (XII century) is known for its Byzantine mosaics, and the Church of Saint Peter for its extraordinary low reliefs and for its location: from here the view on Spoleto is simply amazing. Each year, at the end of June, Spoleto houses the international Festival dei Due Mondi: music, dance and exhibitions held in extraordinary frames. Not to miss. Website: www.festivaldispoleto.com.
Restaurants
Vissani (Civitella del Lago). Founded in 1963, this restaurant is known for its preparation techniques and the quality of raw materials. It is considered one of the best Italian restaurants, thanks to its chef, Gianfranco Vissani. Adress: SS 448 – Baschi, km 6.600 (Civitella del Lago, Terni). Phone: +39 0744 950206. Website: www.casavissani.it. Closed on Monday at lunch, Wednesday, Thursday for lunch and Sunday for dinner.
La Parolina (Trevignano). Located in Acquapendente, this restaurant features a cozy atmosphere and a delicious cuisine, based on meat. The bread is homemade, with natural rising agents and the wine list is reach. Phone: +39 0763 717130. Cell phone: +39 347 5308914. Email: laparolina@libero.it