Find fascinating Roman and medieval ruins in the charming hillside town of Spoleto. This quaint commune, which sits in the shadows of the Apennines Mountains, has several traditional plazas that buzz with life. Imagine yourself in the old Roman town once found on this site as you discover 2,000-year-old columns, bridges and piazzas.
Visit the lively Piazza del Duomo, located just to the south of the town center, and watch local kids playing soccer. Descend the flight of steps found on the northeastern side of the square to reach the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, also known as Spoleto Cathedral. View its acclaimed frescos and see the tomb of one of its main artists, Filippo Lippi. The majestic Teatro Caio Melisso, an opera house with a rich heritage, is found in the same square.
Walk southwest of the square for 5 minutes to reach the Teatro Romano. In the summer, sit in one of its rows and watch live performances. Go to the impressive Rocca Albornoziana in the southeastern part of the town. Housed inside this fortress is the Museo Nazionale del Ducato, where you can learn about the history of the town. Rocca Albornoziana looms over the town’s finest feat, the Bridge of Towers (Ponte delle Torri), which stretches dramatically across a steep gorge.
Attend the town’s 3-week-long Festival dei Due Mondi in summer to enjoy a range of musical performances, as well as dance and visual art displays. Note that July and August are the hottest and driest months here. Winters are fairly mild at the town’s low altitudes, with icy peaks enhancing the bucolic scenery.
Spoleto is located 18 miles (30 kilometers) south of Trevi in the province of Perugia. Arrive at the Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi – Umbria International Airport and take a bus or taxi south for 40 miles (64 kilometers) to reach Spoleto. The commune’s innovative moving walkway runs from Spoleto Railway Station to the town center.
Enjoy Spoleto’s fascinating historical structures and spectacular hilly terrain.
