Umbria, Italy Guide

At the heart of rural Italy, what Umbria lacks in terms of coastline, it more than makes up for with countryside charm. From wildflower-strewn meadows, to the romance of its rolling hills, you’ll find this land of Italian Saints heavenly indeed.

Hole up in a fairytale 14th-century mansion, overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Trasimeno, the gently sloping Apennines rising in the distance. From here, you’re perfectly poised to enjoy all this spectacularly scenic region has to offer - fortified medieval towns, quaint fishing villages, sunflower fields and endless cypress-tipped landscapes, all wonderfully off the well-trodden trail.

Explore picturesque Perugia, the regional capital where Palazzi mansions fringe splendid piazzas, a heady mix of Etruscan, Roman and medieval architecture. Assisi boasts a beautiful basilica, while nestled above vine-striped fields you’ll find the captivating city of Orvieto with its impossibly intricate gothic cathedral and pretty medieval streets. Give your chef the night off and head to mountain town of Norcia where gastronomic greatness awaits. Feast on fine cured meats accompanied by full-bodied local wines, followed by a rich pungent pasta, laced with freshly shaved local truffles.

Set in the heart of Italy, Umbria is a land of rolling hills, ancient cities, and rich cultural heritage. The region, also known as the “green heart” of Italy, has a long and fascinating history dating back to the Etruscan civilization.

Umbria was originally inhabited by the Umbri, a pre-Roman tribe, who gave the region its name. They were skilled in metalworking, agriculture, and pottery, and their presence can still be seen in the numerous archaeological sites scattered throughout the region.

In the 6th century BC, the Etruscans conquered Umbria and established several city-states, including Perugia, Todi, and Spoleto. They built impressive fortifications, roads, and temples, and their influence can still be seen in the distinctive architecture of these cities.

With the rise of the Roman Republic in the 3rd century BC, Umbria became an important strategic territory. The Romans built aqueducts, bridges, and roads, transforming the region into a bustling hub of trade and commerce. They also introduced new crops and farming techniques, which greatly contributed to the region’s prosperity.

During the Middle Ages, Umbria was divided into several powerful city-states, each vying for control over the region. In the 13th century, the Papal States gained control over most of Umbria, except for the independent city-state of Perugia. The Papal States brought about a period of peace and stability, which allowed for the flourishing of art, architecture, and literature.

The Renaissance period saw the emergence of Umbria as a center of art and culture. The city of Assisi became a pilgrimage site after the birth of St. Francis, one of Italy’s most beloved saints. The region also produced renowned artists such as Perugino, Pinturicchio, and Raphael, who left their mark on the region’s churches and palaces.

In the 19th century, Umbria played a significant role in the unification of Italy. The region was home to many important figures of the Risorgimento, the movement for Italian unification, including the revolutionary leader Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Today, Umbria continues to enchant visitors with its unspoiled landscapes, picturesque towns, and rich cultural heritage. Its medieval hilltop towns, such as Assisi, Orvieto, and Spello, offer a glimpse into the region’s past, while its vibrant cities, such as Perugia and Terni, showcase its modernity.