“My new Italy. How to get there, where to stay and what you can see in one November day - Spello and Assisi
Umbria - the "green heart" of Italy!
Umbria, being the only region of Italy that does not have sea coast or borders with other countries. It is rightfully rewarded with the title of "green heart" of the country. Beautiful forests and groves of olives, covering mountains and hills, are full of small rivers and streams, waterfalls. cozy towns and medieval castles, surrounded by a halo of romance, complement the landscape.
The region, whose area is about 85 thousand square kilometers, is divided into two provinces: Perugia and Terni.
The capital of the region is Perugia.
Agriculture is developed in the region, as evidenced by the landscape, and there are no large industrial centers. For example, in the city of Norcia, the third largest, a little more than a hundred thousand inhabitants, and in the rest even less.
You can get to Umbria by plane, which will take you from some European countries to the airport of Perugia S-Egidio, located 12 km from the city. From Moscow it is recommended to fly to Rome or Florence, and from there take a bus to Perugia.
You can also leave by train from Florence, from where there is an hourly train to Terontola / Cortona station (30 minutes on the way), where you need to transfer to the train going through Assisi, Perugia and Spelo to Foligno station.
From Rome, trains leave nine times a day to Foligno (one and a half to two hours on the road), and from there a train leaves for Perugia every forty to fifty minutes (stops in Assisi and Spello).
Orvieto lies on the Rome-Florence line, but not all trains stop there.
When traveling by car, follow the A1 motorway, which connects Rome and Florence and lies in the western part of Umbria. The roads that lead to the cities of the region turn away from it in the Orte area when you drive from Rome. If the path lies from Florence, keep heading for the Siena - Perugia road.
It is preferable to move around the Umbrian towns on foot, since you can’t drive everywhere by car. And even hiking at first will bring some difficulties due to the inherent Etruscan cities descents and ascents and snake-like streets where you can easily get lost. However, all the inconveniences will be easily compensated by the impressions of the walk.
To move between cities, you can rent a car or just use the bus companies APM, SSIT or ATS Terni (by the way, Umbrian buses rest on Sundays).
Also at your service Railway whose trains run around the region.
There are several tourist centers in Umbria: Perugia, Terni, Assisi, Gubbio, Foligno, Spoleto, Orvieto, Toddi.
In Deruta you will be offered a variety of ceramics, the secret of which local craftsmen have kept since the fourteenth century. The smaller shops located in the center have a more interesting assortment and prices are lower than in the larger shops located along the road that leads into the city.
In Perugia, every month on the last weekend, a market is opened where ceramics and jewelry are sold. In winter, the market is on the Rocca Paolina, and in the summer at the Palazzo della Prefettura.
In Bastia Umbria, you can visit the seasonal fair, which takes place in Piazza Mazzini on the third Sunday of spring, summer, autumn and winter, and buy souvenirs and cute trinkets for memory at a very low price.
The center of Spoleto turns into a market every month on the second Sunday.
The last week of March transforms Piazza Comunale in Todi into an antiques market where you can find furniture, paintings, bronzes, antique carpets and ceramics from all over Italy.
Among other things, in the area you can buy items made of alpaca wool, which are bred here on specialized farms.
The cuisine of Umbria is characterized by simplicity and uncomplicated preparation, which makes it possible to enjoy the natural taste of products and quality. The region's dishes include vegetables and mushrooms, olive oil and aromatic herbs, pork and chicken, cereals and cheeses, fine wine and chocolate.
Also, the region is the main supplier of truffles and pork and all kinds of products from it. Crostini al tartufo is a wonderful dish. It includes black truffles, chicken liver and anchovies, and don't forget the pasta typical of the region. Of the main dishes, special attention should be paid to terni's colombaccio selvatico (skewered turtledove) and gallina ubriaca (chicken baked in wine).
Famous various smoked meats can be found and even tasted in the city of Norcia. All smoked products are prepared according to a special method called "norcino". More interesting fact is that chocolate is produced in the region, and it has interesting history, since the chocolate factory began to operate in the 20th century. A more popular variety is Bacio (dark chocolate filled with hazelnuts).
If you want to learn the basics of Italian cuisine (and maybe more), then the gastronomy school of the University of Flavors is open especially for you. It also has branches in Perugia, Orvieto, Terni and Narni.
Of course, Umbria is filled with magnificent landscapes that will not let you pass by, but the region is also gifted with many historical and artistic monuments dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
in Perugia on main square Piazza IV Novembre is worth visiting Palazzo Dei Priori. This is a castle built in the 13th century. There is also the National Gallery, which houses a large collection of objects related to the art of Umbria, from the 13th century to the 19th century. Nearby is the Fountain Maggiore, built in 1278. Don't pass by the Church of San Pietro, famous for its frescoes created by Raphael and Perugino. If you want to look at the ancient fortress built in the 12th century, then you have a direct path to Deruta. There you can also admire the beautiful Romanesque Palazzo dei Consoli, which houses the Museum of Ceramics.
Gubbio is attractive medieval history from which many sights remain. For example, the archaeological museum, the Palazzo dei Consoli and the famous Palazzo Ducale.
Heading by train towards Assisi, on one of the hills there is the majestic building of the Basilica of St. Francis (a complex that includes two churches built in the 13th century and a little later decorated with interesting frescoes and stained glass windows of the work of Giotto, the Lorenzi brothers and other masters, relating to the Renaissance.
Not far from Terni, literally 7 km from the city, there is a whole cascade of Marmore waterfalls, on the Italian Cascata delle Marmore. It was built by the ancient Romans. In the vicinity of the waterfalls, various trails and routes have been laid that lead to waterfalls of different heights. Approximately in the middle is the "tunnel of love", when you exit from which you can remain completely wet if you are not careful. To protect yourself from such a case, you can buy a raincoat, which is sold by local residents at the entrance to the territory of Marmore. The water flowing in the waterfalls is used mainly for the operation of a hydroelectric power station. But you can admire the full beauty of the waterfalls during 12.00 - 13.00 and 16.00 - 17.00.
The city of Narni is famous for the Augusta Bridge, which hangs over the Nera River and is considered the largest bridge built in the history of Italy. Today, about half of the bridge can be viewed, since only this part has survived. Dungeons located in the city and including underground churches with water supply systems also attract with their unusualness.
Orvieto is home to the Duomo Cathedral and a monumental temple built around the 13th and 14th centuries. It also combines elements of the Romanesque and Gothic styles.
In Italy, near the border with Tuscany, the 4th largest lake Trasimeno is located. Swimming in it is not the best idea, but you can enjoy the scenery of local nature for the whole day. A small boat sails from Passignano sul Trasimeno to Isola Maggiore with a sailing time of about 20 minutes. When landing on the island, we recommend drinking a pleasant aromatic coffee in a small cafe located on the shore of the lake, from where all the beauty of the place is revealed. Walking along one of the 2 tour routes, you can see the church of San Michele or the complex of the church and monastery of San Francesco (in other words, Villa Guglielmi). There are also many museums that will also interest tourists.
For lovers active rest Umbria has opportunities to please you with your favorite sport, from rafting to cycling. Beginning rafting enthusiasts are advised to try their hand at the descent of the Nera River, located between Arrone and Ferrentilo. And for those involved in such sports, there is a section of the Corno and Nera rivers, located between the Marmore waterfalls and the National Park dei Monti Sibillini.
For cycling tourism in Italy there is a whole program for its development, where more than 30 routes of varying difficulty are offered.
For lovers of horseback riding in Umbria expanse. At any point in the region, you can ride a horse in the middle of beautiful scenery and local ways of life in small towns that are conducive to this sport.
For our flowers of life, 8 km from Marmore, not far from Arron, is the Nahar Adventure Park. On its territory is the largest Italian farm, which breeds cute animals called alpacas. There is also a didactic farm where kids can look at the life of the farm and even participate in it (bake bread, milk a goat, produce cheese, pick olives, etc.).
Enough interesting events are the Euro-Chocolate Festival, held in October in the center of the historical value of Perugia, the wine festival (in Orvietto), called con Gusto, which includes a fair, tasting and theme nights.
The truffle fair in Valtopina, which takes place every year in November, or the Pietrafita Asparagus Festival (April) deserves no less attention. The truffle fair also takes place in Norcia (February), and in the spring (March) the Benedictine Celebration is celebrated.
In summer (June) Stroncon hosts the International Art Festival. Every year in Terni, St. Valentine's Day is celebrated with great glamor. Also worth a visit is the Umbrian Jazz Music Festival, held in July in Perugia.
A very interesting Tulip Festival that takes place in the spring (April) in Castiglione del Lago, and in May you will be interested in the Festival kites. And don't miss the famous music festival Spoleto due dei Mondi, which takes place in Spoleto in summer (June).
Umbria is a small region in central Italy, the real heart of the country. This is the only region in its peninsular part that does not have access to the sea.
In contact with
The Tiber River flows through Umbria. Also from the reservoirs it is worth mentioning the lakes of Trasimeno and Piediluco, the rivers Chiasho, Nera, Corno, Nestore, Topino and the Cascate delle Marmore waterfall. The capital of the region is Perugia. It borders on the Marche region to the east and northeast, Tuscany to the west and northwest, and Lazio to the south and southwest. In addition, there is an enclave in Umbria bordering the Marche region - this is the district of the city of Citta di Castello.
The landscape characteristic of Umbria is rounded green hills, on which cities and settlements are spread with rich history and traditions. Already in the prehistoric era, the Umbrians and Etruscans lived in the region, then it became part of the Roman Empire, and even later - the Papal States.
Basilica of Saint Francis / Shutterstock.com
Most of the region's territory is occupied by mountains and hills: pits, valleys and plains cover only 6% of its area. Between the Apennines and the Anti-Apennines are vast flat areas, the bottom of which was once occupied by lakes; over time, these lakes were partially filled with rock fragments brought by rivers, and today it is almost perfectly flat land surrounded by hills. The most extensive plain has developed in the Valle Umbra between Foligno and Spoleto, through which the rivers Topino and Clitunno flow; it is the most impressive landscape in all of Umbria.
In the eastern part of the region rises Monte Subasio (1290 m). On its crests built a number of cities rich in history and art treasures: Assisi, Spello, Foligno, Spoleto. Another large plain in the middle of the mountains is the Valle Tiberina, through which the Tiber flows; at the beginning, near Citta di Castello, it is narrow, but then widens, reaching Todi. You can also name the foundation pits of Night, Kashi, Gualdo Tadino and Terni.
Lake Trasimeno / Shutterstock.com
The climate in the region is very diverse due to different altitudes. On the plains and hills it is sublittoral or temperate, altitudinal-Mediterranean, with dry summers, and in mountainous areas it is moderately subcontinental, and at the highest elevations it is moderately cool; precipitation is often abundant there, especially in spring and autumn.
The main cities of Umbria are Perugia, Terni and Foligno.
Tourism
The tourism potential of the region is associated primarily with nature, history and art. Romanesque churches, Gothic cathedrals, basilicas and ancient palazzos to this day testify to a high level of artistic skill. local residents who gave this land in the XII-XVI centuries. a number of immortal masterpieces. Don't miss the National Archaeological Museum of Umbria and the Claudio Faina Museum in Orvieto, which houses numerous artifacts from prehistoric tribes, indicating that the first human settlements in the region appeared already in the Paleolithic era. One of the main treasures of this period is a figurine known as the "Venus of Trasimene", created in the late Paleolithic era and discovered on the shores of the famous lake.
Candle Festival in Gubbio / Shutterstock.com
In Poggio Aquilone di San Venzanzo (province of Terni) a late Neolithic burial was found, and the karst complex of the "Devil's Lairs" in Parrano, at the foot of Mount Pella, is one of the most interesting archaeological sites of prehistoric times in Umbria.
The tomb at Monteleone di Spoleto, dating from the transition period from the Bronze to the Iron Age, is best known for its magnificent gilded bronze chariot, which is now in the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art.
In the Middle Ages, mendicant monastic orders made a great contribution to the history of these lands. Umbria was seized by a powerful religious upsurge, and artists began to gather from all over Italy, creating magnificent works here. First of all, of course, we are talking about painters.
Church of Santa Maria della Cosolazione / Shutterstock.com
In Umbria, all aspects of human life are closely connected and intertwined. Art and craft, which originated in the Middle Ages and developed powerfully in the Renaissance, became even more elegant with the course of the centuries thanks to constant exchange. For example, the ceramic products of the city of Deruta are widely known. Another well-known craft center is Gubbio; its fame began in the 16th century. thanks to the work of master Giorgio Andreoli. This tradition is no less developed in Orvieto. Textile production begins here in the 12th century, and the fame of the products of local weavers spreads throughout Europe. The technologies, colors and patterns of the Middle Ages and Renaissance have been painstakingly restored by today's artisans who continue to work on centuries-old wooden looms. Perugia, Citta di Castello, Orvieto and Montefalco boast the production of valuable fabrics (for example, linen - they are among the best in Italy), decorated with ancient geometric designs in blue, red and gold.
Woodwork is also developed in Umbria. This craft here is divided into two levels: the production of household items for life and work in the countryside and the fine, refined intarsia technique for decorating the interior of churches and noble palazzos. Today, most of the craftsmen no longer create, but restore furniture or produce it according to old patterns. The main cities of this industry are Città di Castello, Gubbio, Assisi, Perugia and Todi; there are still wood sculptors and cabinet makers there.
Piegaro has been home to master glassblowers for over 800 years; It was here that the stained glass windows for the Orvieto Cathedral were made. There is also a workshop in Perugia, where from the middle of the 19th century. artistic stained-glass windows painted with hot enamel are produced.
Spello / Shutterstock.com
And of course, jewelry in Umbria continues to develop and grow every day. In Perugia, Orvieto, Torgiano, Terni and Todi, there are workshops that inherit a long tradition and work according to the ancient Etruscan graining technology.
Umbria is also well developed sports tourism and all the necessary infrastructure for nature lovers. it perfect place for all outdoor sports: the local nature is suitable for outdoor activities. Here you can go hiking or horseback riding, cycling or mountain biking (www.bikeinumbria.it); equipped with many routes of any difficulty level. Sailing enthusiasts will find everything they need for a regatta on Lake Trasimeno. And those who are fond of rowing, canoeing and rafting will appreciate the lakes, rivers and mountain streams of Umbria. In Monte Cucco Park, the bravest will be able to fly a glider, while ski lovers will find excellent cross-country skiing trails in Pian delle Macinara or in national park Monty Sibillini. And in Umbria, you can engage in exciting speleological adventures, making your way into the very interior of the mountains, rich in karst caves. But for those who prefer skiing, there are fifteen kilometers of pistes of varying difficulty in Forca Canapina di Norcia.
You can observe nature more calmly in the WWF oasis of Alviano. Amateur ornithologists and those involved in orienteering come here. There are also many golf clubs in the region, where lovers of this sport can enjoy high-level service.
food and wine
The two protagonists of the local enogastronomy are, without a doubt, wine and olive oil. Grapes and olives have been cultivated here since the time of the ancient Umbrians and Etruscans. The region has 13 DOC and two DOCG wines (Torgiana Rosso Riserva and Sagrantino de Montefalco). Orvieto Classico deserves special mention. Umbrian olive oil is in no way inferior in quality to local wine. It was Umbria that became in 1997 the first region of Italy where the DOP category was assigned to all olive oil produced on its territory. The legend also claims that already in the Middle Ages, Benedictine monks brewed excellent beer. Nowadays, it is in Umbria, the birthplace of St. Benedict, that the headquarters of CERB, a research institute dedicated to the study of this noble drink, is located. Local beef is highly valued, especially the "white bull from the central Apennines" (IGP, patented geographical name) of the Chianina breed, which has been cultivated in Umbria for over two thousand years. Their meat is very tender and tasty, moreover, it contains very little fat. But, undoubtedly, pork among all types of meat occupies a dominant position in Umbria. In Norcia and Valnerina, the production of sausages and pork hams is a real art that dates back several centuries. The Norcia ham is just as famous as the Parma ham or the San Daniele ham. In addition to ham, Corallina, mazzafegato, mortadella, salsiccia and capocollo are made in Norcia using technologies perfected over the centuries.
Black truffle from Norcia / Shutterstock.com
All Umbrian cuisine is thus based on ingredients that are not quite ordinary. Some products are truly unique and listed by the Slow Food Association: beans from Trasimeno, "roveia" from Cascia, black celery from Trevi, "mezzafegati" from Alta Valle del Tevere, "cottora" beans from Amerino. Be sure to also try the beans from Cave di Foligno. Among local products, we also note onions from Cannara, red potatoes from Colfiorito, chinu (small legumes with a bright taste), spelt from Monteleone and Spoleto, the famous lentils from Castelluccio di Norcia (IGP) and saffron from Cascia and Citta delle Pieve. It is worth talking about local truffles separately. Here grow the most valuable white truffle (Tuber Magratum Pico), black truffle from Norcia and Spoleto (Tuber Melanosporum Vittandini), as well as less expensive, but excellent tasting varieties of "scorzone" (summer) and "bianchetto" (winter). Truffles play an important role in the region's economy. Most of the Italian truffles are collected in Umbria. No meal in Umbria is complete without bread. It is baked in different shapes and from different flours. Some types are served on the occasion of a particular religious holiday.
How to get there
By plane
Perugia - international Airport Umbrian San Egidio, 12 km from Perugia
Falconara - Raffaello Sanzio Airport, 155 km from Perugia - 175 km from Terni
Florence (Peretola) - Airport "Amerigo Vespucci", 160 km from Perugia - 235 km from Terni
Rome (Fiumicino) - Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, 210 km from Perugia, 120 km from Terni
Pisa - Airport "Galileo Galilei", 230 km from Perugia - 300 km from Terni
Rimini - Miramare Airport, 223 km from Perugia - 300 km from Terni
By car
Umbria is located in central Italy, its territory is crossed by the main highways of the country.
When driving from northern Italy:
Motorway A1 Florence - Rome
Exits: VALDICHIANA (then go to Terontola-Perugia interchange); chiusi-chianciano
Motorway A14 Bologna-Bari
Exits: RIMINI (then follow to Citta di Castello); FANO (follow Gubbio)
When driving from the south of Italy:
Motorway A1 Rome-Florence
Exits: ORTE (then move to Perugia - Cesena); ATTILIANO ORVIETO FABRO
Motorway A14 Bari-Bologna
Exits: CIVITANOVA MARCHE (then follow to Foligno-Perugia); PESCAR (then move to Terni via L'Aquila-Rieti); ANCONA NORD (when traveling to Gubbio)
By train
Umbria has 350 km of railways with 35 stations. Main branches:
Rome - Florence, route through Perugia: Florence, Terontola, Passignano, Perugia, Assisi, Spello, Foligno, Spoleto, Terni, Orte, Rome
Route through Orvieto: Florence, Terontola, Chiusi, Orvieto, Attigliano, Orte, Rome
Adriatic Railway: Ancona-Terni route: Ancona, Fossato di Vico/Gubbio, Foligno, Spoleto, Terni; Ancona-Perugia route: Ancona, Fossato di Vico/Gubbio, Foligno, Assisi, Perugia
Most of the Umbrian landscape is made up of hills (63%) and mountains (31%), and very little - flat areas (6%). The general landscape is an alternation of valleys, mountain ranges, plateaus and valleys. Different heights above sea level also have an impact on the region's heterogeneous climate: in the valleys and hilly zones the climate is temperate continental with dry and hot summers, in the mountains it is temperate subcontinental, and in especially high zones it is characterized by abundant spring and summer precipitation. The average annual temperature is also not the same in different places and ranges from 11.2°C in Norcia (with its 604 meters above sea level) to 15°C in Terni with the most temperate climate in all of Umbria.
The eastern borders of Umbria are characterized by a series of chains, among the highest mountains are Cucco (Cucco, 1.566 m above sea level), Penna (Penna, 1.432 m), Monte Kosherno (Monte Coscerno, 1.685 m), Monte Patino (Monte Patino, 1.884 m) and Monte Pozzoni (Monte Pozzoni, 1.904 m). In the southeast rises the mountain range of Monti Sibillini (monti Sibillini) with peaks exceeding 2,000 meters, among them - the most high mountain Umbrian Cima Redentore (Cima Redentore) with a height of 2.448 meters. In the southwestern part of the region, Mount Subasio rises to a height of 1,290 meters. Among the southern Umbrian peaks, it is worth noting Monte Brunette (Monte Brunette, 1.429 m), Monte Fionchi (Monte Fionchi, 1.337 m) and Mount Solenne (Solenne, 1.288 m). Western Umbria completely changes its landscape: instead of mountains, valleys and hills dominate here.
Mountains and nature reserve Monti Sibillini. A photonorciavacanze. it
Most big lake Umbria - Trasimeno (Trasimeno) with an area of 128 sq. km and maximum depth 7 m, the fourth largest in Italy. This lake is navigable, here you can take a boat trip and visit its islands: Polvese (Isola Polvese), Small Island (Isola Minore), Big Island(Isola Maggiore). Other lakes: Lago di Piediluco, whose name comes from the settlement of the same name, and Lago di Corbara, located between the cities of Todi and.
The main river flowing through the territory of Umbria is the Tiber, out of 405 km of its entire length, 210 fall on Umbria. The Nera, Chiasho, Topino, Paglia and Nestore flow into the Tiber. Another Umbrian river is Velino, whose waters are so rich in calcium bicarbonate that in the ancient Roman era a natural dam was formed that prevented the flow into the Nera River. In 271 BC. The Roman consul Manius Curius Dentatus ordered a canal to be built on this site, which would provide water with free passage, resulting in the Cascata delle Marmore waterfall, 165 meters high.
Cascata delle Marmore waterfall. A photoit. wikipedia. org
Story
Already in the prehistoric era, the Umbrians and Etruscans lived on the territory of modern Umbria. In 672 B.C. The city of Terni was founded - the capital of one of the two Umbrian provinces. In 295 BC Roman colonization of Umbria began. From this period, numerous architectural objects: theaters and amphitheaters, ruins of defensive walls and temples, bridges and roads, of which the most important is Flaminieva (via Flaminia), connecting and, the construction of which began in 220 BC. politician and military leader Gaius Flaminius.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Ostrogoths and Byzantines fought for Umbrian land, and the Lombards settled in the eastern part of the region, creating the Spoletan Duchy, which was independent from 1571 until the middle of the 13th century. The Byzantines left the so-called Byzantine corridor - a narrow strip of land along the Tiber, consisting of hard-to-reach castles and fortresses.
Since the 11th century, many cities in Umbria have received the status of a commune. The most active independent settlements then were Perugia (Perugia), Assisi (Assisi), Spoleto (Spoleto), Terni (Terni), Gubbio (Gubbio) and Città di Castello (Città di Castello). The independent cities were often at war with each other, taking sides in the conflict between the papacy and the empire, respectively taking the side of the Guelphs or the Ghibellines.
In the 14th century, small principalities (signories) formed in Umbria, which gradually became part of the Papal States, a theocratic state, under whose authority the region remained until the end of the 18th century. During the Napoleonic invasion in 1798-99. Umbria was part of the Roman Republic, and after the expulsion of the French usurper, by decision of the Congress of Vienna in 1815, it was returned to the composition. The region joined the United Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
culture
The spread of Christianity in Umbria is marked by the emergence of a huge number of monasteries. Here such religious orders as the Franciscan, Benedictine, women's order of Clarisse were born. Saint Benedict of Norcia (480-547) is considered the founder of monasticism. In the XIII century, two significant figures in the history of Catholicism were born: St. Francis (1182-1226), who is considered the patron saint of Italy, and St. Clara. To the Franciscan and Benedictine monasteries must be added the basilica and the monastery of St. Rita of Cascia.
Umbria is known all over the world for its cultural monuments: this is the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (Basilica di San Francesco d "Assisi) with magnificent frescoes by Giotto, Cimabue, Lorenzetti, Simone Martini; Cathedral in Orvieto (Cattedrale di Orvieto), Torri Bridge in Spoleto (Ponte Torri di Spoleto), the Great Fountain in Perugia (Fontana Maggiore di Perugia) and much more.
Basilica of Saint Francis in . A photomagicoalvis.it
Frescoes by Giotto in the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi. A photovitadadonna.com
In this region you can see numerous medieval castles, Renaissance palaces, Romanesque and Gothic churches and cathedrals, which were decorated by the most famous masters: Giotto, Vasari, Filippo Lippi, Pietro Della Francesco, Perugino, Penturicchio and others. On the wave of religiosity to Umbria talented artists from all over Italy flocked to work, leaving their immortal masterpieces here.
Renaissance art appeared in Umbria in the first half of the 15th century, not without the participation of some Florentine artists. From the second half of the 15th century, first in Perugia, and then in other places, a new art school appeared, reflecting the Umbrian Renaissance. Thanks to such names as Pietro Perugino, Bernardino Pinturicchio and Rafael Santi (born in Urbino, but as an artist formed in Umbria), the region has become one of the most important cultural centers of the peninsula. In Florence and Rome, Umbrian artists enjoyed resounding success, at the same time spreading a new direction of painting for the 16th century.
Holidays
Umbria is very popular among tourists - both ancient folk and modern musical and theatrical, held in many cities throughout the year.
Among the most famous folklore festivals is the giant candle run (La corsa dei Ceri), which takes place in Gubbio. According to legend, Saint Ubaldo helped the townspeople win a difficult victory in the battle against the Perugine troops. Grateful admirers placed the remains of the martyr in the basilica in 1194 and every year on May 15 they celebrate the day of their patron with a historical race. This competition is interesting because only the strongest men in the city participate in it, running with huge wooden "candles" in their hands. By the way, it is these three “candles” that have been decorating the coat of arms of the Umbria region since 1974.
Candlelight race in Gubbio. A photoit. wikipedia. org
Quintana is an annual horsemanship competition that takes place in July and September in Foligno. This jousting tournament is preceded by a procession in historical costumes. This is the only folk festival in Italy dedicated also to the fashion of the 17th century.
Every year in May-June, the city of Spello hosts Infiorata - a festival of flowers, when carpets-pictures of multi-colored flower petals are laid out on the streets of the city.
The "Run of the Ring" (Corsa all'Anello) takes place in Narni in late April - early May. Riders in historical costumes compete in the dexterity of hitting a galloping spear into small hanging rings.
Gourmets also have something to see and try in Umbria: every year in February, the Black Truffles Fair Neronorcia (Neronorcia-Mostra) takes place in Norcia; in Terni in February, the Cioccolentino Chocolate Festival is held; the Eurochocolate fair, held in October in Perugia, is dedicated to the same delicacy; in Foligno in September, a feast dedicated to the first courses of Italy (I Primi d'Italia) unfolds; also in September, but in Montefalco, the Sagrantino Wine Festival opens annually.
Chocolate map of Italy at the fairEurochocolate". A phototurismo.it
Music lovers will appreciate the following musical events in Umbria: "Umbria Jazz" with the participation of world celebrities takes place in July in Perugia and other cities in the region; in Spoleto in June-July they organize the international festival of the Two Worlds (Festival dei due Mondi); in many cities on Lake Trasimeno, the "Trasimeno Blues Festival" unfolds in July; in Citta di Castello in July-August the festival of chamber music "Festival delle Nazioni" takes place; and Orvieto hosts the Umbria Folk Festival in August.
Cuisine of Umbria
The basis is dishes using meat and products grown on the ground, such dishes are prepared here both on the occasion of big holidays and in everyday life. Cooking in Umbria is simple, trying not to overcook the products so that their original flavor is preserved, always using grains and legumes. The cuisine of this region has its roots in the ancient civilizations of the Umbrians, the Etruscans (in the area of Perugia and Orvieto) and later the Romans.
Once in Umbria, you should definitely try the pork meat delicacies that are made in Norcia, looking for shopping in a shop to one of the "norcino" - the local butchers are called. Other products for which Umbria is famous are truffles and olive oil.
Meat delicacies Norcia. A photonorcineriafelici.it
The oldest university (Università degli Studi di Perugia) was founded in 1308 by the decree of Pope Clement V. Already in the XIV century it was one of the most prestigious universities in Italy, which taught law, grammar and logic, medicine and surgery, mathematics, languages. Currently, more than 27 thousand students of the State University of Perugia study at 11 faculties (law, political science, economics, philosophy, pedagogy, medicine and surgery, mathematical, physical and natural sciences, pharmaceuticals, agronomy, veterinary medicine, engineering). The University of Perugia has its branches in Assisi, Citta di Castello, Foligno, Spoleto, Orvieto, Terni, Narni.
The University for Foreigners (Università per Stranieri di Perugia), founded in Perugia in 1925, offers studies at the faculty Italian and culture, there are also courses at various levels in the study of the language and Italian culture. 1600 foreign students study at the university.
University for Foreigners in Perugia. A photodinamars. hubpages. com
The regional economy is based on agriculture, industry, crafts, tourism and the service sector. Over 230,000 workers work in very small enterprises, as almost 95% of Umbrian enterprises have no more than 10 employees. The unemployment rate of 5.2% is one of the lowest in Italy.
Agriculture employs about 2.7% of the population of Umbria, the main crops are grapes, olives, wheat, tobacco, black truffle (Norcia and Spoleto).
The main areas of industry are metallurgical, metalworking, chemical. These industries, concentrated in the province of Terni, began to develop in the 19th century. The food industry includes about 1200 companies and is the backbone of the entire Umbrian economy. Handicraft production, with its ancient traditions, does not lose popularity even today, contributing to the economy of the region and its cultural and artistic heritage.
Tourism is an important component of the Umbrian economy: annually, attracted by the historical, cultural and religious heritage of the region, about 4 million tourists come here, of which about 0.5 million are from other countries.
Transport
Umbria is riddled with a web highways, which connect it to nearby regions and cities such as Rome and Florence. Rail links connect Rome with Ancona and Terontola. The largest railway stations located in Foligno, Terni and Perugia.
There are two airports in the region: in Perugia, which connects Umbria with many airports in Italy and other countries, and in Foligno, which, however, is not a passenger one, but is intended for the transport of goods and for the needs of civil protection of the population.
Demography
908 thousand people live on the territory of Umbria, the average population density is 107.42 people per square meter. kilometer. Most populated cities: Perugia (169 thousand), Terni (113 thousand), Foligno (58 thousand), Citta di Castello (41 thousand), Spoleto (40 thousand), Gubbio (33 thousand), Assisi (28 thousand), Bastia Umbra (22 thousand), Corciano (21 thousand), Orvieto (21 thousand), Narni (20 thousand).
According to ISTAT data as of January 1, 2011, 99,849 foreigners are legally residing in Umbria. Most of all immigrants are from Romania (22.132 people), Albania (16.418 people), Morocco (9.844).
Tourism
Umbria is full of cities and places that are of great cultural and artistic interest and attract tourists from all over the world to the region. In addition to the capital of the region - and the city of St. Francis -, and are of interest to tourists. Let's take a short tour of them.
Spoleto (Spoleto)
The city of Spoleto, or rather, the settlement on the site of modern Spoleto, was founded by the Umbrians. In 241, the Romans colonized its territory, giving the city the name Spolenium. Unlike some other vassals of the great empire, Spolenium was not burdened by the protectorate of Rome, throughout ancient period the inhabitants of the city remained faithful to their great patron, in any wars speaking on the side of Rome, including the Punic ones. Cicero called Spoletium one of the most beautiful and prosperous colonies in central Italy.
The city has gone through many trials. Its inhabitants saw various conquerors and governors - from Atilla to Frederick Barbarossa, who in 1155 almost completely destroyed Spoleto. Among the rulers of the city was the famous Lucrezia Borgia (1499). From the 13th century Spoleto was part of the state of the Holy Church, even the Representation of the Holy Pope (Delegazione Pontificia) was located here. Most high building in the city - Albornz tower (Rocca del Albornoz) - built in the XIV century. like a papal fort. It was here that Lucretia Borgia lived and members of the "Red Brigades" languished in custody. To the side is the enchanting Torri Bridge (Ponte delle Torri), spanning the empty space gaping between the castle and the opposite hill. The tower bridge was actually built as an aqueduct in the 13th century.
The 12th century cathedral is the outstanding treasure of Spoleto. The medieval portal is decorated with a rose window. The floor of the cathedral is laid out in the form of patterns of spirals and mysterious lines. The Cathedral houses the works of Pinturicchio and Filippo Lippi. Among connoisseurs of painting, Spoleto is considered the "city of Pinturicchio", since a large number of works of this outstanding master of the Umbrian school have remained here. On the north side of the stairs leading to the Cathedral Square, there is a pearl of 12th-century architecture - the chapel of Sant'Eufemia (Chiesa Sanf Eufemia).
FROMbuilding of Spoleto. A photoit. wikipedia. org
Tody (Todi)
To the west of Spoleto, on a high hill, is the city of Todi. Historians claim that a settlement on this site existed as early as the 2nd millennium BC. From time immemorial, the local lands were the border between the possessions of the Etruscan and Umbrian tribes, therefore the name of this settlement comes from the word "tular", which means "border".
One of viewing platforms The city is located on Garibaldi Square (Piazza Garibaldi), offering a magical view of the green hills of Umbria. Main Cathedral of the city (Cattedrale) stands on Victor Emanuel II Square (Piazza Vittorio Emanuele), it was built in the XII-XIII centuries, and works on interior decoration completed only by the 16th century. On the same square are the Palace of the Priors (Palazzo dei Priori, XIII century), the Palace of the Captain (Palazzo del Capitano, XIV century) and the Palace of the People (Palazzo del Popolo, XIII century).
Todi. A photop
At some distance from the central part of Todi, there is a temple of Santa Maria della Conzolazione, somewhat unusual for these places (Tempio di Santa Maria della Conzolazione, XVI century). It is interesting in that for a long time the copyright for its creation was attributed to the architect Donato Bramante, but now researchers are increasingly inclined to believe that it was designed by Cola di Capsorala.
Castiglione- del- lago(Castiglione del Lago)
On the west bank Lake Trasimene stands the town of Castiglione del Lago, which translates as "Castle of the Lake". Once there were four islands on the lake, now only three are left, and the last one has turned into a coastal cape. It is on this cape that the town of Castiglione is located. It must be said that the city fully justifies the name "Castle", since its main buildings are the Lion's Fortress (Rocca del Leone, 1247) and the Palazzo Ducale (Palazzo Ducale, XIV century), connected by a long passage. The castle, designed by the master Elia Coppi, is a pentagon in plan, decorated with powerful bastions. They say that this fortification I was very interested in Leonardo da Vinci.
View of Castiglione del Lago. A photoborghitalia.it
Every two years, in the spring, Castiglione del Lago hosts an international gathering of hang gliders called "Color the Sky".
Orvieto
In the southwestern part of Umbria is a charming city (Orvieto), spread out on a tuff hill. This hill is very precarious, and scientists believe that the city exists on the verge of sudden extinction. The inhabitants of Orvieto itself do not really share the fears of geologists, they simply live by turning the slopes of a treacherous hill into a continuous vineyard. By the way, white wine made from local grapes has a special taste and is famous far beyond the borders of Umbria.
Panorama of Orvieto. A photosteephill.tv
The Cathedral (Cattedrale) in Orvieto is an outstanding piece of architecture worthy of a book world history arts. The construction of this church building, dedicated to Saint Mary and Saint Costanzo, began in 1290 and was completed only in the 17th century. This is a three-aisled building, the basis of which was built in the Romanesque style, but the main artistic merit of the Cathedral is its magnificent Gothic facade, decorated with golden mosaic panels.
The museum, which stores relics, one way or another connected with the Cathedral, is located on the second floor of the Soliano Palace (Palazzo Soliano). Soliano Palace is interesting in itself, it was built in the XIII century, the building is better known as the palace of Boniface VIII (Palazzo di Bonifacio VIII).
The Archaeological Museum occupies two buildings at once. The first part of the exposition, dedicated to the Greek period of the history of these places, is based in the Faina Palace (Palazzo Faina), which is located directly opposite the Cathedral. Another museum department, which presents exhibits related to the culture of the Etruscans, can be viewed in the Papal Palace (Palazzo dei Popi). The palace was built in the 13th century. and rebuilt in the 1960s.
Among the many religious buildings of the city, one can single out the church dedicated to St. Andrew (Chiesa di Sant "Andrea). This building (VI-XIV centuries) witnessed many important events in the history of Orvieto. The strict bell tower, built of brick in the Romanesque style, attracts attention. Among the many works collected inside the church, the works of Arnolfo di Cambio are of particular interest.
Gubbio (Gubbio)
On the opposite, northeastern outskirts of Umbria is the city of Gubbio. Situated on the slopes of Mount Ingino (Monte Ingino), this locality For a long time it was considered inaccessible, therefore it was nicknamed "the abode of silence". Now it is not difficult to get to it, but even despite the fact that streams of tourists rushed to Gubbio, the city has not lost its primitive originality.
It is best to start a walking tour from the upper part of the city (you can go up there by funicular), gradually descending to the base of the hill. So you can save energy and better appreciate the stunning panoramas that open at different points on the route.
Gubbio Center. Photo agriturismocaiferri. it
One of the most characteristic buildings of Gubbio is the Consular Palace (Palazzo dei Consoli), or the Podestà Palace (Palazzo del Podestà). This is an ensemble of two buildings on a hilltop, oriented towards the Great Square (Piazza Grande) - the artistic center of Gubbio. Both palaces were built in the 14th century. designed by the architect Matteo di Giovanello, better known as Gattapon. Currently, there is an art gallery and a local archaeological museum.
The most significant objects for sightseeing in the city are the Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducale), Cathedral(Cattedrale), the Basilica of St. Ubaldo (Basilica di Sant "Ubaldo), the house of St. Ubaldo (Casa di Sant" Ubaldo), the Victorian Church (Chiesa Vittoriana), the Church of St. Francis (Chiesa di San Francesco), etc.
Celebrities of Umbria
Pietro di Cristoforo Vannucci, better known as Perugino (1445-1523), was born in the Umbrian town of Città della Pieve. His contemporary was another famous Umbrian artist, originally from Perugia - Bernardino di Betto, called Pinturicchio (1454-1513). Of contemporary artists, it is worth noting Alberto Burri (1915-1995) from Citta di Castello.
Italian entrepreneur Luisa Spagnoli (1877-1935), born in Perugia, is known for inventing the famous Bacio Perugina chocolates. The well-known journalist Walter Tobagi (1947-1980) was born in Spoleto, the television director Lino Procacci (1924-2012) was born in Preci, the writer Barbara Alberti was born in Umbertide. Former football players Stefano Tacconi and Fabrizio Ravanelli were born in Perugia, while their sports colleague Giancarlo Antonioni was born in Marsciano. And the town of Civitella del Lago is the small home of Gianfranco Wissani - a cook, restaurateur, deli and TV presenter.
The western neighbor of Umbria is Tuscany, the eastern one is Marche, southern - Lazio. To the west of Umbria is Lake Trasimeno, and to the east is the Umbro-Marcian Apennines. Right there, on the border with the Marche, is located highest point Umbria - Mount Vettore, whose height is 2476 meters. The most low point- Province of Terni (96 meters above sea level). By the way, on the territory of this province are the Falls of the Marmore, the total height of which is 165 meters.
Story
The territory of present-day Umbria has been inhabited since the Neolithic. On the border of II and I millennia BC. these lands were the habitat of the Umbrian tribes. After, they were replaced by the Etruscans, who founded almost all the cities of this region. In the III-II centuries BC. The region was conquered by the Romans. During this period, the Flaminian Way was laid, which connected Rome and Arimino. In the III-V centuries AD, Umbria was attacked by barbarian tribes. Since the 12th century, the region has been part of the Papal States. And in 1860, Umbria becomes part of the Sardinian kingdom, and then becomes part of Italy. The modern borders of Umbria were established in 1927, when the province of Terni was created and the separation of the region of Rieti, included in Lazio, took place.
Climate and demography
The climate of Umbria is continental: it is hot in summer and cool in winter. However, the western part of the region is characterized by a milder climate. Perugia level average temperature in January it is +1.6 °С, and in July +21.6 °С.
According to 2013 data, 886,239 people live in Umbria.
How to get to Umbria?
In the vicinity of Perugia is the airport S. Egidio. Unfortunately, direct flights from Russia do not fly here, however, having made a transfer at Milan, you can easily reach Umbria.
You can also get here by train from Rome or Florence.
What to see in Umbria?
The main attractions of Umbria are its landscapes immersed in greenery, but besides them, there is something to see in the region.
- In Perugia, be sure to visit the church of San Pietro, which is famous for the frescoes of Raphael and Perugino.
- In Deruta, tourists are attracted by an ancient fortress built in the 12th century with preserved fortress gates, as well as Palazzo dei Consoli, a beautiful Romanesque palace, inside which there is a ceramics museum.
- In Gubbio, which is considered the most beautiful medieval city, visit the Archaeological Museum (Museo Civico), Palazzo dei Consoli and the famous Palazzo Ducale.
What to try in Umbria?
Umbrian cuisine is replete with a variety of meat dishes, so try them first.
- First, we recommend ordering strangozzi, a typical Umbrian spaghetti-type pasta with truffles and pork cheeks.
- Also be sure to taste the pride local cuisine- goose on a spit.
- We recommend trying local wines: Sagrantino and Montefalco, they are not only insanely delicious, but also incredibly fragrant.
What to bring from Umbria?
Souvenirs from Umbria are most often gastronomic: pecorino cheese with truffles or nuts, prosciutto from Norcia, black truffles, olive oil, local wines, Vecchia Umbria bitter herbal liqueur and chocolates produced by the Perugia factory.
