Exploring the Heart of Italy

Umbria, in the heart of Italy, is a region characterized by gorgeous mountains, valleys and medieval hilltop towns. It's the birthplace of the saints-- St. Benedict, St. Valentine, and of course, St Francis making Assisi a pilgrimage destination since the 13th century. But even with all these attributes it's still less touristy than its neighbour Tuscany though no less gorgeous. 

An exploration of the hilltop villages of Umbria starts with Perugia. Situated on a hilltop in the Tiber Valley, Perugia offers stunning panoramic views of rolling green hills and the Apennine mountains. Perfect for landscape painters.

Next visit Orvieto with its medieval architectural charm, warren of narrow streets and impressive cathedral. This village is begging to be sketched from its cobblestoned streets to its menacing gargoyles.

Of course, Civita di Bagnoregio must be on the itineary. This ancient hilltop village founded by the Etruscans more than 2,500 years ago can only be accessed by its pedestrian-only footbridge. It's a long trek but well worth the effort.

Next a visit to Spello, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. This town is overflowing with window boxes and hanging baskets of flowers and the host of a flower festival every June when teams of people create flower mosaics that are laid out in the town's streets and piazzas. It's a painters paradise.

Of course, our tour of the hilltop villages wouldn't be complete without making our own artistic pilgrimage to Assisi, a world heritage UNESCO site and the birthplace of St. Francis in 1180.

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