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- Il cuore verde d'Italia
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Map of Umbria |
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View of Assisi |
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Umbria is Italy's version of "roads less traveled." Authenticity still abounds in this region's beautifully preserved medieval hill towns. Its isolated valleys, streams and mountains make Umbria the perfect destination to discover rather than simply visit.
The green heart of Italy, as it is often called, offers plenty of hiking and biking opportunities for nature lovers to enjoy. Umbria, Tuscany's fascinating and much undiscovered kissin' cousin, is also an ideal base from which to visit both regions. Families will enjoy staying at many of Umbria's working farms where children can learn about Italian country life and traditions through hands on activities.
Click here for Top villa rental properties in Umbria
Click here for Top boutique hotels in Umbria
Lovers of history will find that Umbria has a fascinating past. Umbria was named by the Romans after the mysterious tribe of the Umbrii (XI century B.C.), a mysterious tribe cited by Pliny The Old (23-79 AD) as the oldest in Italy. These Umbrians occupied the area East side of the Tiber river. The towns of Perugia and Orvieto, West of the Tiber, were founded by the Etruscans (IV century BC). After the Northern "Barbaric" invasions destroyed the Roman Empire, around 400 AD, the Umbrian withdrew into beautiful fortified Medieval hill towns exceptionally well preserved up to date.
Umbria is also well known as the birth place of St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226). An extraordinary figure in Western Christianity, St. Francis gave back dignity to the physical world. His poetic 'Canticle of the Creatures' is a wonderful ode to all living things enjoyed by people of any faith. Visitors from all over the world come to Umbria to follow the St.Francis' trail.
One of the most flourishing art centers of Italy, Umbria lovingly preserves the works of the 13th, 14th and 15th century artists such as Giotto, Cimabue or Filippo Lippi to name just a few.
Umbrian food and wine are also renown: local wines trace their roots to the Etruscan period. The word 'Norcineria' (grocery store), takes its name from the town of Norcia where prosciutto and salame are among its specialties. Gnocchi di patate (potatoe dumplings) and many different type of pasta origined here as well. Not to be forgotten is the Umbrian extra virgin olive oil with its unique taste. Delve further into the culinary arts of Umbria, with one of our inspiring cooking classes available.
Click here for activities in Umbria.
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