Orvieto: the pearl of Umbria strikes for its beauty
From the Cathedral with its mosaics, to the well of San Patrizio. Up to the network of underground tunnels. This is Orvieto.
Orvieto: "the tall and strange city"
The city of Orvieto strikes for its suggestive position. Perched on a tuff cliff, this urban agglomeration of Etruscan origin, seen from afar, seems almost suspended.
Like all the historic cities of Umbria, it has a rich artistic heritage, enhanced by careful redevelopment work.
Furthermore, this center in the province of Terni is very lively. Walking through the streets of the historic center, monuments aside, you will never get bored. You will always find a great movement, a swarm of people between shops and small shops where you can buy souvenirs and typical local products. Or places to stop for a snack or an aperitif and typical restaurants.
The underground path of Orvieto
A masterpiece of European Gothic architecture, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta it is the most important monument and a place of worship of reference for Orvieto and tourists.
The building dates back to the XNUMXth century and about twenty artists worked on it, including architects Arnolfo di Cambio e Lorenzo Maitani. You will be struck by the majestic facade, with mosaics that tell the stories of the Old and New Testament.
Inside, on the right transept, pause in the Chapel of San Brizio. Example of Italian Renaissance painting, whose decoration was started in 1447 by Beato Angelico and completed by Luca Signorelli.
Another city meeting point is Piazza del Popolo, which houses the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. For those in search of suggestions there is the possibility of descending into the underground Orvieto, in an ancient network of caves, tunnels and cisterns.
The Well of San Patrizio: an extraordinary work of hydraulic engineering
Commissioned in 1527 from Antonio da Sangallo the Younger by Pope Clement VII, it is a magnificent work of hydraulic engineering.
Tradition says by walking to the end of the 248 steps that flank it, even the most incredulous faithful will obtain the remission of their sins. It is 54 meters deep, has 70 windows. Visiting it is a unique experience.
Before going out, remember to throw a coin in the water. It is a good omen!
The truffle: the king of the Orvieto table
Black, white or summery, called "scorzone ", the truffle is king on the tables of the area. The best way to enjoy it? As a condiment for first courses, for example on umbrichelli, which is a fairly thick long pasta made with water and flour.
Another delicacy to try absolutely is the lumachella, a snail-shaped baked product, stuffed with pecorino cheese, bacon, oil and pepper.
For carnivores there are dishes with wild boar, Chianine steaks or platters with local cold cuts, such as porchetta.
Sprinkle everything with a good Orvieto doc, white, red or aleatico, where you can dip the donuts in wine or tozzetti with almonds.
