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VIAGGIO IN ITALIA

Umbria

Artemest is proud to present the ninth stop in its ultimate insider’s guide to Italy: Umbria. Known as the green heart of Italy, the region offers stunning glimpses of pristine natural landscapes, dotted with small hamlets and castles full of history, art and culture. Explore Umbria to discover one of the most authentic regions of Italy.

Bordering the regions of Tuscany, Marche and Lazio, Umbria is a luscious green paradise in the very heart of Italy. Full of natural treasures, with its hilly landscape, lakes and waterfalls, the region is characterized by a rural charm and a significant historical heritage.


Small hamlets and charming medieval towns have preserved their original architectures and each part of the region keeps a strong identity, forged in time and history. Split in half by River Tevere, Umbria jealously keeps some of the most breathtaking views of Italy: from immaculate vineyard and olive groves to picture-perfect towns and cobbled street villages. For centuries the region has been a land of artists and artisans that handed down their heritage to the present and shaped the local culture as we see it today.

Illustration by Francesca Consonni
Illustration by Francesca Consonni

What to See

Alta Valle del Tevere - A natural amphitheater, where the plains are surrounded by the majestic Apennines, with fields alternating with the lush woodland. Following the intricate path of Tevere river you can cross the entire region, passing through beautiful towns rich in history such as Città di Castello, with the beautiful Palazzo Vitelli alla Cannoniera and the monumental Cathedral. Continue your itinerary up to Gubbio, one of the most ancient towns of the region where marvelously well-preserved architectures offer a privileged view on Medieval history.

Lake Trasimeno - Located on the border with Tuscany, it is a true natural paradise. Designated Regional Park in 1995, the lake has always been one of the natural treasures of Italy, that has charmed poets, painters and travelers. Lord Byron compared it to a “silver veil” and the beautiful towns all around it gives you different perspectives of this enchanting body of water.

Perugia and Assisi - Many centuries of history, art and culture have crossed the streets of Perugia, from its squares to its tiniest alleys, here you can breathe a unique atmosphere. Once in Perugia visit Piazza IV Novembre, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy, and Palazzo dei Priori. Walk along Via dei Priori to discover a curious selection of small shops and atelier. Move on the way to Assisi, declared part of the UNESCO World Heritage, and take a walk in the magic atmosphere of the historic center. From the Basilica of St. Francis to the Cathedral of San Rufino, this is a place with a deep sense of spirituality.

Orvieto and the South - Orvieto stands on a rocky volcanic hill, surrounded by the Umbrian countryside. With miles of unspoiled countryside adorned with vineyards all around, the town has a great heritage in wine production. To experience the real essence of Umbrian nature, reach the beautiful Marmore Falls, among the highest in Europe, and the National Park of Monti Sibillini, where it is possible to admire thousands of flowers blooming in an incredible show.

Assisi
Assisi
A view of Tevere River
A view of Tevere River

Traditional Umbrian Craftsmanship

Ceramics from Deruta - The great geographical position of Deruta, near mainland and Tiber River, and the abundant availability of the clay in the nearby hills, boosted the development of the Deruta potters. The art of ceramic in town was born in the 16th century and has developed over time acquiring unique characteristics and becoming more and more precious. In the small hamlet you will find some of the most important ceramic ateliers such as Idea Ceramica, Sambuco and Estroflesso.

Maiolica a Lustro from Gualdo Tadino - Just outside the city walls, in Gualdo Tadino, find Maurizio Rubboli’s workshop. Here, the artisan works the ceramic with the ancient technique of “maiolica a lustro”, inherited from his family and passed down for generations. This unique art is a tradition for the local artisans and also Lidiana Brunetti, founder of Iridescenze, applies it in the making of her ceramic artworks.

Ceramic painting at Materia Ceramica's workshop
Ceramic painting at Materia Ceramica's workshop
Metal Working at Lispi Workshop
Metal Working at Lispi Workshop

Where to Stay

Hotel Castello di Reschio, Tabaccaia di Reschio - In the wild Umbrian countryside, the stunning thousand-year-old Castello di Reschio has been transformed into a 36 rooms hotel, perfectly integrated in the rural surroundings and exuding with history. The Reschio estate stretches for 3,700 acres and has been owned by the Bolza family for three generations, born as a legacy project to restore and preserve.

Mazzini 31, Monteleone d'Orvieto - An elegant villa with a stunning view on the undulating Umbrian landscapes, this centuries-old palazzo has been restored to retain the old-world charm, with a touch of contemporary whimsy. A perfect retreat designed for those seeking to unwind and explore the beauty of this stunning Italian region.

Eremito Hotel, Parrano - An Eco Luxury Historic Residence restored to its original splendor: the ideal place for solo travelers, who aspire to spend a spiritual holiday in silence, in a stone building warm in winter and cool in summer, renovated with the modern green building techniques, but that fully reflects the atmosphere of the medieval monastery.

Rastrello Boutique Hotel, Panicale - Located in a renovated Palazzo rich in history on the border between Umbria and Tuscany, Rastrello features a total of seven uniquely designed rooms. Each space presents a completely different layout, ranging from exposed stone walls and wooden floors to vaulted ceiling beams and stunning lake views.


Discover Umbrian Craftsmanship & Art

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