The Town of San Gemini and the Roman ruins of Carsulae

San Gemini and the ancient Roman ruins of Carsulae are just a short drive from Todi offering a memorable day trip brimming with history and beautiful views of the rolling Umbrian countryside.

The town of Carsulae, dating from the 3rd century BC, was most famous for it’s Roman baths and therapeutic spring waters. It was developed shortly after the Via Flaminia was built and a large segment of this historic road remains intact forming the main street through the site. Though the town was abandoned in the Middle Ages because of serious landslides, the thoughtful excavation and restoration provides good insight to its original glory. Today, the small entrance museum provides a map of the site enabling visitors to stroll at their leisure through the tranquil ruins. Highlights include the Basilica of the Twin Temples, the amphitheatre and forum, the imposing arch of St. Damian, the medieval church of St. Damian and the interesting sepulchral monuments - all of which are quite well preserved.

A visit to the ruins in the morning will leave the afternoon to explore the quiet, peaceful town of San Gemini. An agricultural suburb of Carsulae in the 1st Century under the name of Casventum, it developed into a small city during the Middle Ages as Carsulae was abandoned. It was during this period that the town was renamed San Gemini - there are several theories for the name change, however the truth remains a mystery. Though quite small, San Gemini encapsulates the history of many hill towns in central Italy. It flourished and expanded during the 12th and 13th centuries, when several new churches, convents and monasteries were built. By the 15th Century, San Gemini was a religious center of some importance with most residents living inside the city walls connected with religious institutions.

The narrow, picturesque streets of San Gemini, radiating from the main square, Piazza Palazzo Vecchio, are often no more than stairways winding past the many churches and medieval residences. Local restaurants hidden in the maze of tiny streets offer a relaxing afternoon repose. ‘Taverna del Torchio’, on Piazza Garibaldi, is a good choice, with its traditional wood-burning oven, quality dishes and friendly attention; it has become a favorite of the area locals. A visit to the ‘Park of the Sangemini Spring’ will provide the perfect setting to reflect on the day. Located just north of San Gemini, 380m above sea level, the ubiquitous pine trees and ancient oaks are encompassed by soul soothing views of the countryside. Here the famous Sangemini mineral waters can be tasted directly from the fresh springs. This truly is the place to experience ‘Il Gusto del Paese’!