You can spot Spoleto from far away. The city seems to rise layer upon layer against the hillside, crowned by the mighty Rocca Albornoziana fortress. Just outside the city walls, the spectacular Ponte delle Torri stretches dramatically across a deep forested gorge. The setting is breathtaking, and once inside the city, you quickly discover that Spoleto is not only grand and historic but also wonderfully relaxed.
The Ponte delle Torri
When Johann Wolfgang von Goethe travelled through Spoleto in 1786, he climbed the aqueduct out of curiosity. In his diary, he wrote admiringly about the ten arches spanning the valley, standing strong and unchanged through the centuries.
The Ponte delle Torri is a remarkable medieval aqueduct, measuring no less than 230 metres in length. It was probably built between the 13th and 14th centuries on the remains of an earlier Roman aqueduct. Rising 80 metres above the wooded ravine below, its ten elegant arches create one of the most iconic views in Umbria. Walk across it, or admire it from below, and you immediately understand why Spoleto captivates visitors from all over the world.
The Duomo
Spoleto’s cathedral enjoys one of the most beautiful settings in Umbria. At the end of a broad staircase, the square suddenly opens up between the narrow medieval streets of the historic centre. The Romanesque façade glows in pale stone, decorated with large rose windows and a stunning mosaic.
Inside, you will find an extraordinary fresco cycle by Filippo Lippi and a beautiful Cosmatesque floor. The atmosphere is peaceful and impressive at the same time.
The Rocca Albornoziana
Towering above the city, the Rocca Albornoziana dominates the skyline with its imposing presence. The fortress can easily be reached via the escalators connecting the lower town with the historic centre and houses the Museo Nazionale del Ducato di Spoleto.
One of the highlights is the Camera Pinta, decorated with rare 14th-century frescoes depicting scenes of courtly and chivalric love. Even without entering the museum, the panoramic views over the Umbrian valley alone make the climb worthwhile.
The Basilica di San Salvatore
The Basilica di San Salvatore is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites known as “The Lombards in Italy” and dates back to the early Christian period.
Please note that the basilica is currently closed for restoration. However, visitors can still admire the beautiful façade and catch a glimpse of the interior through a glass door from the adjacent cemetery.
Palazzo Collicola
Palazzo Collicola is one of Umbria’s leading museums for contemporary art. Spread across three floors, the museum features an impressive collection of sculptures, paintings, street art, photography and installations by internationally renowned artists.
What makes the museum particularly special is the contrast between the modern artworks and the elegant 18th-century interiors, complete with frescoed ceilings and historic decorations.
A taste of Spoleto
No visit to Spoleto is complete without discovering the local cuisine. Try handmade strangozzi, the rustic pasta typical of the region, served with black truffle or a spicy tomato sauce. Pair it with crispy bruschetta drizzled generously with Umbrian olive oil.
To finish, enjoy a glass of Trebbiano Spoletino, the local white wine. Find a table on Piazza del Mercato or one of the smaller squares hidden within the old town and simply watch Umbrian life pass by.
Festival dei Due Mondi
Since 1958, the Festival dei Due Mondi has transformed Spoleto into an international stage for music, opera, theatre, dance and visual arts. Every summer, thousands of visitors from around the world come to experience the festival’s unique atmosphere.
Over the years, artists such as Luciano Pavarotti, Riccardo Muti, Al Pacino and Roman Polanski have all appeared at the festival. During the event, Spoleto itself becomes part of the performance: concerts and shows take place in piazzas, Roman theatres and even in the courtyard of the Rocca.
Visiting Umbria in late June or early July? Then an evening at the festival is an unforgettable experience.
Practical Information
Spoleto is easy to reach from almost anywhere in Umbria. It is best to park outside the historic centre and use the escalators leading up into town.
The city is built on a hillside, but once you reach the upper centre, most sights can easily be explored on foot.
Buon divertimento!
Staying near Spoleto
Villa San Severo
Villa Terzo San Severo is an authentic Italian holiday villa with a private pool in Umbria, located in the small and peaceful village of Terzo San Severo, just a short drive from the historic town of Spoleto. Set on a hillside and surrounded by olive groves, this charming property offers privacy, comfort, and beautiful views over the Umbrian countryside.
Borgo Acquaiura
Beautifully restored Borgo, an antique and very small village, with several holiday rentals sharing a panoramic pool. Each house has a private garden or terrace with views. The dedicated caretakers are ready to help you with anything you need, making your stay in the Borgo Acquaiura a unique experience.
Spoleto Villa
Beautifully situated 17th-century villa, 15 minutes’ drive from Spoleto, in the unspoiled countryside with wide views and absolute tranquillity. The villa is surrounded by a park with a swimming pool, lawn, beach volleyball, an outside kitchen, barbecue and ping pong.
Copyright: @scrittofoli
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