The Women of Umbria

On the occasion of March 8th, International Women’s Day, we want to celebrate it with some of the female figures who symbolize Umbria, a land rich in history, art, culture, and spirituality. Luisa Spagnoli, Marchioness Elena Guglielmi, Maria Vittoria Semolesti, Saint Clare of Assisi, and Saint Rita of Cascia… Women symbols of entrepreneurial spirit, faith and devotion, and still universal values of strength, courage, and independence, which continue to inspire women and men all over the world.

Luisa Spagnoli
A name that immediately evokes images of refined fashion and chocolaty delights. However, her legacy goes far beyond catwalks and delicacies. After the devastations of World War II, Luisa Spagnoli became passionate about Angora rabbits, not only starting to collect them but also discovering a secret that would revolutionize the world of fashion: the art of combing, rather than shearing, these animals. A gentle gesture that allowed for a yarn of unprecedented softness, a fabric that caressed the skin like no other. And what about her delicious chocolates? The Bacio Perugina is a name known all over the world, but there’s another bar that bears her name, a creation some Perugians affectionately call “Carrarmato” (“Tank”), perhaps as a tribute to her tenacity and strength of spirit.

Saint Chiara of Assisi
Born in Assisi in 1194, Chiara Offreduccio degli Scifi, better known as Saint Clare, was a revolutionary figure of her time. A friend and follower of Saint Francis, Clare renounced her comfortable life to embrace a life of poverty and service. The founder of the Order of Poor Clares, she placed prayer and dedication to others at the center of her existence, becoming a model of inner strength and determination.

Saint Rita of Cascia
Saint Rita, born Margherita Lotti in Roccaporena, near Cascia, in 1381, is known all over the world as the saint of impossible cases. Her life was marked by great suffering and challenges, from her youth, when she was forced to marry against her will, to the death of her sons and her husband’s illness. Despite the adversities, Saint Rita found refuge in the Augustinian monastery of Cascia, where she lived until her death in 1457. Her tomb, located in the Sanctuary of Saint Rita of Cascia, attracts thousands of faithful and visitors every year, testifying to the power of hope and perseverance even in the most desperate situations.

Elena Guglielmi and Maria Vittoria Semolesti
At the beginning of the 20th century, Marchioness Elena Guglielmi brought the technique of Irish lace making to Isola Maggiore in Lake Trasimeno, inspired by the traditions born in Irish monasteries at the end of the 19th century, according to the ancient art of Venetian lace. Instead of being made with needle and bobbins, the peculiarity of this lace is created with a crochet hook using an extremely thin yarn. In 1963, the islander Maria Vittoria Semolesti restarted the activity by founding a cooperative of lace makers for the sale of Irish lace.

 

Photo credits by:
Cittàdelladomenica.it
NestlèItalia.it

Hotel Relais Ducale

Hotel Relais Ducale

An exclusive 4-star hotel in the heart of Gubbio, where history and comfort meet.

Hotel Relais Ducale boasts a privileged position in the historic center, overlooking Piazza Grande, one of the most beautiful in Italy, and a few steps from Palazzo dei Consoli, the Duomo and historic churches.

Housed in an elegant 14th-century building, the hotel offers breathtaking views of Gubbio and the surrounding hills. Guests can enjoy carefully furnished rooms, an enchanting hanging garden, a panoramic terrace, a refined snack bar, two meeting rooms and an internet point, for a stay dedicated to relaxation and elegance.

Services

Disabled access

Accepting groups

Small pets allowed

Air conditioning

Lift

Hair dryer

Bar

Safe deposit box

Gluten free

Minibar

Laundry

Park/Garden

Restaurant

TV - TV Sat

Free Wi-fi - Internet

Information request




    I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with thePrivacy Policy

    I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

    Map

    Gallery

    Carnival sweets in Umbria

    The ancient Latin saying reads
    “semel in anno licet insanire – once a year it is permissible to go crazy”

    Carnival Origin
    The common thread that binds Carnival, the mask or masquerade party par excellence, all over the world seems to be precisely the concept that is furthest from what the Romans called mos maiorum, good morals, morality.

    But before we get to the Romans, let’s take a few steps back.
    The origin of the Carnival dates back to 4000 years ago with the Egyptians and the rites in honor of Isis, the goddess of fertility.

    With the Romans, the Carnival Festival coincided with the Lupercali, in honor of the God Luperco, symbol of Roman fertility. The period, for both Egyptians and Romans, is celebrated at the end of February.

    Sacred and Profane
    The Carnival, between banquets, parties and masks, thus becomes a sort of social “level”: a disguise that hides the status of belonging and allows everyone to set aside moral rigidity for a day.
    With Christianity, Carnival from the Latin “carnem levare”, Shrove Tuesday becomes the last day to eat meat before abstaining from consuming it during the period of Lent but also the last opportunity to fill your belly with sweets rich in sugars!

    Tipical sweety food in Umbria
    Whether it’s Egyptian, Roman or Christian, the “reasons” of Carnival are disguise (masquerade) and the consumption of food, especially sweets!

    Let’s see what are the typical ones in Umbria:

    • Frappe
      Strips of sweet puff pastry in the shape of a bow. Covered with alchermes sugar or honey, they can be either fried (as per the original recipe) or baked in the “lighter” variant. In any case, the result is a crunchy, sweet and tasty pastry.
    • Castagnòle
      The name derives from the memory of the small chestnuts with their rounded shape. The dough is composed of flour, eggs, sugar, yeast and an aromatic liqueur. Also these sweets, as per tradition, are fried paying particular attention to making them golden on the outside and cooked well inside, helping them to remain round during cooking by moving the pan in a rotating direction. Then covered with sugar, honey or alchermes.
    • Strufoli
      Traditional from Perugino, they resemble castagnole with the difference of having a softer texture and are, on the other hand, larger in size. They are then covered with sweet dripping honey.
    • Cicerchiata umbra
      From the name of the Umbrian Cicerchia, a rounded legume, the cicerchiata is a crown of sweet balls covered in honey.
    • Crescionda spoletina
      With this dessert we move to Spoleto with its Crescionda.
      Originally prepared with chicken broth, or lard, in fact also known as “grescia unta” for being particularly fat, sugar, cheese, chocolate and breadcrumbs were then added. Or the version prepared with apples and dried fruit. Today his recipe marries modernity using chocolate, milk and amaretti biscuits. It is also recognized as a Traditional Umbrian Agri-Food Product.

    Credit photo
    UmbriaTourism
    Forchettiere.it
    Antonio Gravante
    2Amiche in Cucina

    The Legends of Saint Valentine

    The story of Saint Valentine of Terni is shrouded in mystery and folklore, with various legends intertwining over the centuries.

    Saint Valentine is revered as the patron saint of lovers, and his feast day on February 14th is celebrated worldwide. Valentine was a Christian bishop from Terni, who died as a martyr in Rome on February 14th, 273 AD. He was laid to rest in Terni, in the Basilica where his relics can still be found today.

    One of the most famous legends tells that Emperor Claudius II in the 3rd century AD had issued a decree that prohibited the marriage of young men, believing that singles made better soldiers. However, Valentine disobeyed this decree and continued to perform secret weddings for young couples. When his disobedience was discovered, Valentine was arrested and brought before the Emperor. During his imprisonment, legend has it that Valentine healed the blindness of his jailer’s daughter and that, before his execution, he wrote her a farewell letter, signing it “From your Valentine.”

    This story has helped to cement Saint Valentine’s association with romantic love. Another version of the Saint Valentine story suggests that he might have been martyred for aiding persecuted Christians during the reign of Claudius II. Yet another legend tells of Valentine witnessing two young lovers arguing and giving them a rose, urging them to hold it together as a way to reconcile, and then having doves fly around them, hence the term “lovebirds.” In any case, the figure of Saint Valentine quickly became a symbol of love and devotion, and his feast day became associated with romantic love over the centuries.

    Terra Umbra Hotel

    Terra Umbra Hotel

    Terra Umbra Hotel has 29 rooms: single, double, triple or suite. It is located in the countryside, in  a very peaceful place, far from the noises of the city, but anyway far only 5 minutes by car from Narni and Terni.

    Our rooms, where you enter with personal key-card, have full amenities including stereo, TV, mini bar, trousers press, air conditioning, safe, bath tub or shower. Dependence has 2 suites elegantly furnished, which can host up to 4 people. Our hotel also features a large and well-equipped conference room complete with projector and wide screen. There is a small fitness center with sauna, as well as an outdoor swimming pool where guests can enjoy a cool and healthy refreshment on hot summer days. The property has Wi-Fi coverage and a large car park. Our hotel also has a beach volley court and a certified football court. All areas are wheelchair accessible.

     

    Next to the hotel, restaurant “Al Canto del Gallo” was born from the restoration of an ancient farmhouse. Rustic and elegant at the same time, it offers a relaxing atmosphere where you can taste both Umbrian culinary traditions and new flavours. It is a perfect place for meetings, ceremonies, work and private dinners.

    Services

    Disabled access

    Accepting groups

    Small pets allowed

    Air conditioning

    Lift

    Hair dryer

    Bar

    Football pitch

    Safe deposit box

    Minibar

    Gluten free

    Laundry

    Gym

    Parking

    Park/Garden

    Swimming pool

    Restaurant

    Conference hall

    Sauna

    Transfer da/per aeroporto

    TV - TV Sat

    Free Wi-fi - Internet

    Information request




      I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with thePrivacy Policy

      I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

      Map

      Gallery

      Fontebella Palace Hotel

      Fontebella Palace Hotel

      Let yourself be enveloped by the timeless charm of an ancient residence in the heart of Assisi. The Hotel Fontebella Palace, housed in the historic Palazzo Ferri Benigni Illuminati Scatena, welcomes you in a refined atmosphere, just a few steps from the Basilica of San Francesco.

      Every room is a journey through history: breakfast in the Medieval room, relaxation in the charming Rose Garden and the unique experience on the panoramic terrace of our restaurant, Il Frantoio. Here, the Umbrian culinary tradition is enriched with Italian excellence, giving life to authentic and creative dishes.

      The rooms, different in style and era, preserve the charm of the residence, restored in compliance with the Fine Arts. From the hall with wine bar to the fireplace room, every detail tells of an illustrious past.

      Perfect for weddings, events and tastings, the Fontebella Palace transforms every stay into an unforgettable experience, between history, hospitality and haute cuisine.

      Services

      Accepting groups

      Small pets allowed

      Air conditioning

      Lift

      Hair dryer

      Bar

      Safe deposit box

      Minibar

      Gluten free

      Free Wi-fi - Internet

      Bicycle rental

      Parking

      Restaurant

      Conference hall

      TV - TV Sat

      Information request




        I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with thePrivacy Policy

        I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

        Map

        Gallery

        Lionel Richie Umbria Jazz 2025

        Promo!!!

        A unique experience to enjoy a mini vacation on the occasion of Umbria Jazz and the Lionel Richie concert.

        Discover with us our Concert + Stay promo

        Price starting from Euro 195.00

        The price per person in a double room includes:

        • One night’s accommodation in a double/twin room with breakfast
        • Concert included
        • Europ Assistance Travel Insurance

        The fee does not include

        • Extras and personal tips
        • Tourist tax where applicable to be paid in cash
        • Anything not indicated under “The fee includes”

        Travel Conditions

        Upon confirmation of availability, a deposit of 30% of the package will be required.

        The balance must be paid within 30 days of the arrival date.

        Europ Assistance insurance coverage will be formalized upon payment of the balance.

        Any cancellations must be communicated via email to info@umbriasi.it

        For cancellations after the balance has been paid up to the arrival date, late arrival and/or early departure, no show (i.e. no presentation), the total amount of the practice will be required.

        Europ Assistance insurance coverage can be activated (for the cases envisaged by the coverage) which will be formalized upon payment of the balance.

        Book now and pay later!

          I have read the information and authorize the processing of data as reported in thePrivacy Policy
          I authorize the sending of commercial communications (optional)

          Mappa

          Gallery

          PH DAVID MORRESI © UMBRIA JAZZ

          Mika Umbria Jazz 2025

          Promo!!!

          A unique experience to enjoy a mini vacation on the occasion of Umbria Jazz and Mika’s concert.

          Discover with us our Concert + Stay promo

          Price starting from Euro 165.00

          The price per person in a double room includes:

          • One night’s accommodation in a double/twin room with breakfast
          • Concert included
          • Europ Assistance Travel Insurance

          The fee does not include

          • Extras and personal tips
          • Tourist tax where applicable to be paid in cash
          • Anything not indicated under “The fee includes”

          Travel Conditions

          Upon confirmation of availability, a deposit of 30% of the package will be required.

          The balance payment is required within 30 days of the arrival date.

          Europ Assistance insurance coverage will be formalized upon payment of the balance

          Any cancellations must be communicated via email to info@umbriasi.it

          For cancellations after the balance payment up to the arrival date, late arrival and/or early departure, no show (i.e. no-show) the total amount of the practice will be required.

          Europ Assistance insurance coverage can be activated (for the cases provided for by the coverage) which will be formalized upon payment of the balance.

          Book now and pay later!

            I have read the information and authorize the processing of data as reported in thePrivacy Policy
            I authorize the sending of commercial communications (optional)

            Mappa

            Gallery

            Foto PH DAVID MORRESI © UMBRIA JAZZ

            Stay at Umbria Jazz 2025

            PH DAVID MORRESI © UMBRIA JAZZ

            Stay at Umbria Jazz

            Promo!!!

            A unique experience to live Perugia and Umbria Jazz

            Do you already have your ticket????

            We will help you find the best solution for your overnight stay!

            Price starting from Euro 54.00

            The price per person in a double room includes:

            • One night’s accommodation in a double/twin room with breakfast
            • Europ Assistance Travel Insurance

            The fee does not include

            • Extras and personal tips
            • Tourist tax where applicable to be paid in cash
            • Anything not indicated under “The fee includes”

            Travel Conditions

            Upon confirmation of availability, a deposit of 30% of the package will be required. The balance payment is required within 30 days of the arrival date. Europ Assistance insurance coverage will be formalized upon payment of the balance Any cancellations must be communicated via email to info@umbriasi.it For cancellations after the balance payment up to the arrival date, late arrival and/or early departure, no show (i.e. no-show) the total amount of the practice will be required. Europ Assistance insurance coverage can be activated (for the cases provided for by the coverage) which will be formalized upon payment of the balance.

            Book now and pay later!

              I have read the information and authorize the processing of data as reported in thePrivacy Policy
              I authorize the sending of commercial communications (optional)

              Mappa

              Gallery

              PH DAVID MORRESI © UMBRIA JAZZ

              Relais Il Baio

              Relais Il Baio

              This enchanting Relais in Spoleto, in the heart of Umbria, offers refined and authentic hospitality, combining elegance and comfort. Its rooms and suites, meticulously designed and furnished with Mastro Raphael fabrics, ensure a relaxing stay with spacious, bright, and soundproofed environments, equipped with all modern amenities, from Wi-Fi to a minibar.

              The modern conference center and the restaurant, housed in a beautifully restored historic manor house, make the Relais an ideal choice for events and charming getaways. The cuisine enhances the flavors of Umbrian tradition with carefully selected organic ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, flour, truffle, locally sourced meats and cheeses, and even fish from the Nera River’s freshwaters.

              For guests’ well-being, the Beauty Farm offers a heated pool with hydromassage, a sauna, a steam bath, and a relaxation area with music therapy. The surrounding park features a 9-hole golf course, an outdoor pool, and an equestrian school.

              Services

              Disabled access

              Accepting groups

              Small pets allowed

              Air conditioning

              Hair dryer

              Bar

              Safe deposit box

              Wellness centre/SPA

              Minibar

              Gluten free

              Golf

              Laundry

              Bicycle rental

              Parking

              Park/Garden

              Swimming pool

              Indoor swimming pool

              Restaurant

              Conference hall

              Sauna

              Free Wi-fi - Internet

              Information request




                I have read and authorise the processing of my data in accordance with thePrivacy Policy

                I authorise the sending of commercial communications (optional)

                Map

                Gallery