In Umbria, set like a jewel in the valley, there is a town of just 8500 inhabitants, awarded with the orange flag by the Touring Club Italia for having entered, by right, in the list of the most beautiful villages in Italy, we are talking about spello.
Spello to see and taste
Not as famous as the neighbor Assisi, but certainly just as beautiful, Spello will pleasantly surprise you with a respectable list of places to see absolutely. Given the small size, the town can be covered entirely on foot. You do not need great marathon runners to reach the places of greatest interest, on the contrary, a few minutes' walk is enough to literally find yourself from one part of the country to the other.
The locals seem to live outside time, leading a quiet life among the beautiful churches and the numerous arches that characterize the streets of the town. The proverbial Umbrian welcome can only make you appreciate even more the beautiful Renaissance alleys, extremely well-kept and well-preserved. Although the historic center is mainly composed of small alleys and small streets, the main "arteries" are passable by car, and will take you in a few minutes from the north to the south side of the town.
A city to eat
Spello is beautiful and also known for its traditional cuisine. Absolutely recommended a stop for the tasting of the famous ones truffle sauces and typical local dishes such as "spelled soup"On which to pour the delicious Umbrian oil. Just ask a Spellano for directions on where to go and taste their delicacies to find yourself squinting with pleasure in just a few minutes. Full stomach and rested foot, it's time to fill ourselves with culture.
Strolling in Spello
From the beautiful Republic square, which houses the town hall, continuing in a southerly direction you will arrive in a few seconds at the church of Sant'Andrea.
Quick turnaround to reach the Venus Gate in a few steps. An ancient pass, which gives access to the town through the walls. A must see there Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maggiore which houses the frescoes by Pinturicchio such as "The Nativity". Take the time you need to visit via Cappuccini, obviously on foot, you will like it.
In the surroundings of Spello
Assisi and Todi
It is not necessary to spend many words to invite you to visit the famous tourist destinations Assisi and Todi. Famous respectively for San Francesco d'Assisi and Jacopone da Todi, it will take 20 minutes by car to reach the two towns.
Perugia
Perugia, the Umbrian capital city is a jewel. If fame precedes it as regards culinary delicacies, it is absolutely no less from an architectural and landscape point of view. Splendid and welcoming like few other cities in Italy, Perugia retains a charm that has remained unchanged over time. Palazzo dei Priori e Major fountain alone, they are worth a visit to the city. Ancient but also young, Perugia hosts one of the most prestigious and ancient universities in ItalyUniversity of Perugia which dates back to 1308.