The Town of Orvieto

Those that enjoy Italian wines are no doubt familiar with the name, Orvieto. The fruity whites, 'the wine of popes and kings', from this region are sold throughout the world, and of course, readily available in cafes and shops around town. However, a trip to Orvieto has much to offer in addition to pleasant wines and good dining.

Strategically positioned, Orvieto was founded by the Etruscans and conquered by the Romans in 265 BC, becoming a free state with the fall of the Roman Empire. The town has always been of key importance due to its location between the north and south of Italy and thus became a papal stronghold in the 14th century. With 3,000 years of history, Orvieto offers today's visitor treasures from each period.

The town is perched on a plateau of volcanic rock 315 meters above sea level overlooking the serene vineyards of the Paglia River valley, a beautiful 40-minute drive from Todi.

On Orvieto's main square, Piazza del Duomo, can be found one of Italy's greatest Romanesque-Gothic cathedrals (begun in 1290 AD). It took over 300 years to complete this magnificent duomo with its elaborate façade, beautifully restored frescoes and the shrine sheltering the Holy Corporal from Bolsena.

Just off Piazza del Popolo, the medieval town center; is the world-famous Pozzo de San Patrizio. This 16th century well dug in the volcanic rock is over 62 meters deep and was considered an engineering feat in its day. The two spiral staircases of 250 steps lead into the wells but never intersect. This ingenious double helix design enabled animals loaded with water to come up from the well without meeting those on their way down.

In addition to the excellent museums, the Etruscan period can be best experienced by entering the underground grotto accessed from Via della Cava as well as a stop at Necropoli del Crocifisso del Tufo; an Etruscan cemetery where sepulchers built of tufa rock display what is assumed to be the names of the deceased - fine examples of the Etruscan written language.

Still strategically positioned, many visitors return to Orvieto, as in addition to your journey through history you won't want to miss the quaint shops offering local pottery and regional delicacies. Indulge an afternoon at one of the many friendly cafes, sipping 'liquid gold' and savoring delicious local dishes while enjoying the traditional hospitality of enchanting Orvieto.