Renaissance itinerary between Umbria and Marche in the footsteps of the Montefeltro family

Renaissance itinerary between Umbria and Marche in the footsteps of the Montefeltro family

This itinerary will take us through some of the most fascinating cities of Umbria and Marche, following the trail of the Montefeltro and the Renaissance. Each stop offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, art and culture of one of the most fascinating eras in Italy.

The first stop on our journey is GUBBIO, one of the oldest cities in Umbria. In Piazza Grande stands the Palazzo dei Consoli, an extraordinary example of Gothic architecture that houses the Civic Museum. It will be possible to admire the collection of art and historical artefacts, including the Eugubine Tablets. Not far away is the Palazzo Ducale, a unique example of Renaissance architecture, commissioned by Federico da Montefeltro around 1476 as a residence for the family, following the illustrious example of the one in Urbino. The interior preserves some original furnishings and an extraordinary replica of Federico’s study, covered in inlaid wooden panels based on designs by Francesco di Giorgio. Don’t miss a walk along the medieval streets of Gubbio, breathing in the unique atmosphere of this city, or a cable car ride up Colle Eletto to admire a breathtaking view and visit the Basilica of Sant’Ubaldo.

The route continues towards URBINO, the birthplace of Raffaello Sanzio and the cradle of the Italian Renaissance. Perched on the hills of the Metauro Valley, the city appears from afar with its Palazzo Ducale, built by Duke Federico da Montefeltro, a Renaissance masterpiece. Inside, it houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, which houses works by Piero della Francesca, Titian and, of course, Raffaello. Duke Federico’s study, inside the Palace, houses a valuable coffered ceiling and is covered in the lower band with inlaid wood by Baccio Pontelli based on designs by Sandro Botticelli, Francesco di Giorgio Martini and Donato Bramante.

Heading towards the coast, a stop is a must at GRADARA. A border village a few steps from Romagna, immersed in the hills but close to the sea, it is a space frozen in another time. The village has always been identified with its fortress that for centuries has defended noble and famous dynasties such as the Malatesta, the Sforza and the Borgia. Also mentioned by Dante in the Divine Comedy for the tragic love of Paolo and Francesca.

The itinerary ends in PESARO, on the Adriatic coast. Italian Capital of Culture in 2024, UNESCO Creative City for Music and City of the Bicycle. Among the places to visit in the city there is certainly the Palazzo Ducale, a splendid Renaissance residence built by the Dukes of Urbino, which stands majestically on the square. Birthplace of Gioacchino Rossini, there are many places that recall the illustrious character such as his house or the Theater named after him. You cannot miss the Villa Imperiale, located on the hills overlooking Pesaro. This Renaissance residence, immersed in a lush park, is one of the most beautiful in Italy.

The city boasts a long golden sandy beach, perfect for relaxing under the sun. The seafront is lined with palm trees and offers a splendid view of the Adriatic Sea. We suggest taking a walk, renting a bike or simply enjoying the sea and the sun.

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    Tour of the Abbeys between Umbria and Marche: an itinerary in the places of silence and prayer

    Tour of the Abbeys between Umbria and Marche: an itinerary in the places of silence and prayer

    This territory has always been a land in between, extremely important from a historical and cultural point of view because it is a crossroads of peoples and traditions, to bind – over time – the various cultures was religion, which, through churches, convents, abbeys, hermitages, has formed and influenced several generations.

    Starting from the territory of the Marche, the first stop on our itinerary is the church of Sant’Ansovino di Avacelli which is located in the territory of ARCEVIA, along the road that leads to Serra San Quirico. Built around the 11th century, it is one of the churches that probably belonged to the Order of the Templars, around it there are many legends linked to the charm and the many secrets that the Knights hid, one of these speaks of an ancient treasure hidden right in the vicinity of the church. A curious story is told by a custodian who in the 17th century, while searching for this ancient wealth, split in half the processional cross with six spheres – symbol of the Knights Templar – located on the facade. Apparently, he found no gold but a terracotta pine cone.

    The second stop on the tour takes you to the Abbey of San Vittore delle Chiuse, in the territory of GENGA, one of the most beautiful and important Romanesque buildings in the Marche. The church, built in the birthplace of San Benedetto, to whom it was originally dedicated, was constructed by the Lombards towards the end of the 20th century. Much of the charm of this large building is due to its splendid and scenic location, in the GOLA DI FRASASSI where the mountains create a sort of suggestive amphitheater. Sober and imposing, it has a structure in large white stone blocks, the lack of decorations – in perfect accordance with the artistic canons of the time and with the dictates of faith – gives the visitor an atmosphere of purity and essentiality. A mysterious detail has always attracted the attention of scholars and the curious who have wondered about the meaning of the symbol of the inverted Infinity that is found near the left door of the altar.

    Another important example of the Marche Romanesque is represented by the nearby Abbey of Santa Croce in SASSOFERRATO, in the territory of Fabriano, which is located on a small hill surrounded by a fascinating impervious nature. Its construction is particular and fascinating, within the walls of an already existing church built in all probability by the Knights Templar of which various symbols are recognized carved on columns and capitals. The Templar mysteries are not the only ones to arouse curiosity, in fact on the upper floor you can see some symbols that recall the god Mytra, a pagan divinity to whom the ancient original temple was probably dedicated.

    The destination of the fourth stage is the Abbey of Sant’Emiliano in CONGIUNTOLI, which, dedicated to the martyr of Numidia, Emiliano, is located on the junction – hence the name in Congiuntoli – of two waterways, the Esino and the Rio Freddo. Although it is located in the province of Perugia, the ancient construction in Romanesque-Gothic style is territorially part – historically and artistically – of this extraordinary border area of ​​the Marca di Ancona. It is a monumental Benedictine abbey with a severe and imposing appearance that includes the monastery and the church and which most likely belonged to the Templar Order which, right on the Rio Freddo, had a historically confirmed headquarters. The loss of the monastery archive does not allow for precise dating or information, what is certain is that it was very important and owned several properties sold in 1860 when the royal commissioner of Umbria suppressed the monastery.

    Before leaving the Marche and heading towards Umbria, we will stop at the majestic Monastery or hermitage of the Holy Cross of FONTE AVELLANA, near Serra Sant’Abbondio. Built on the slopes of Mount Catria around the year 1000 as a place of spiritual retreat for monks who wanted pure contact with God, immersing themselves in the silence of nature, it is still an oasis of peace where nature embraces and protects the structure and where many go to pray and meditate. The San Pier Damiani scriptorium is precious, the only one in the Marche that has never been restored and is therefore completely original, where the copyist monks studied and copied the ancient texts.

    Returning to Umbria, near DI SCHEGGIA E PASCELUPO, there is the Abbey of Santa Maria di Sitria, located at the foot of Mount Nocria (867 meters), in the narrow valley of the Artino stream, inside the Monte Cucco Park. The hermitage was built by San Romualdo in 1014 while between 1018 and 1021 he founded the monastery there. The church of Sitria is composed of a single nave separated, in the Benedictine manner, from the presbytery by a stone staircase of 8 steps. It has Romanesque-Gothic lines, has a stone ogival vault roof and an altar embellished with three-lobed arches, supported by 13 small columns, most of which were stolen in the sixties and rebuilt. In the apse basin there is a fresco dating back to the 18th century, depicting the Crucifixion, by an unknown artist. The crypt below, which is accessed through an entrance in the center of the staircase, is very elegant and has a vault supported by a granite column with a capital, almost certainly from a Roman building. In the basement of the church, the so-called prison of San Romualdo is indicated, the narrow cell in which the Saint was locked up for six months by his monks.

    The last stop on our itinerary that ends in Umbria, is near UMBERTIDE, the Abbey of Montecorona is an imposing Benedictine complex founded in the 12th century. Immersed in a thick forest, the abbey is famous for its Romanesque crypt, an evocative and mysterious environment. The visit offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in medieval history and appreciate sacred art in a natural context of rare beauty.

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      What to do in Umbria in November? UmbriaSì tells you

      November in Umbria: The Month of Taste! Our suggestions for an Autumn Holiday

      November is the perfect month to visit Umbria if you are a lover of good food, nature and authentic traditions. Known as the green heart of Italy, the region in autumn transforms into a paradise for the senses, especially for food lovers. November is, in fact, the Month of Taste in Umbria, a period in which intense flavors, fine products and local traditions blend into an unforgettable experience.

      Here are three tips to organize a holiday in Umbria in November.

      Frantoi Aperti: Discover the secret of extra virgin olive oil

      November in Umbria is synonymous with Frantoi Aperti, the event dedicated to freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil. Throughout the month, you can visit traditional mills, watch the oil extraction process and taste it fresh on a slice of toasted bread, the classic bruschetta.

      Villages such as Trevi, Spello and Bevagna organize tastings, guided tours and activities related to this ancient tradition. This is the perfect time to discover one of the region’s most popular products and learn about the processing techniques passed down from generation to generation. In addition, Umbrian extra virgin olive oil is a perfect gift to take home, an authentic flavor that captures the essence of the Umbrian land.

      Medieval Villages and Autumn Atmosphere: Tranquility and Tradition

      November is the month in which Umbria’s medieval villages show their most intimate and charming side. With fewer tourists and a relaxed atmosphere, you can explore places like Gubbio, Spoleto and Montefalco enjoying their beauty in complete tranquility.

      Walking through the cobbled streets of these villages in autumn is a special experience: the warm colors of the leaves, the soft lights and the fresh air create a unique atmosphere. This is the perfect time to slow down and immerse yourself in the local culture, visit ancient churches, discover artisan workshops and stop in an inn to taste typical dishes of the season.

      In addition, many places begin to prepare for Christmas with markets and small events that enrich the autumn experience, offering you a taste of the most authentic and welcoming Umbria.

      Truffles and New Wine: Autumn Delicacies

      November is the month of authentic flavors in Umbria, in particular of the white truffle and new wine. The region is famous for its truffles, and during this period many festivals and exhibitions dedicated to this precious fungus are celebrated. At the same time, November is also the month of vino novello, a young and fruity wine that pairs perfectly with the typical dishes of the season. The Umbrian cellars open their doors to offer you tastings and convivial moments, where you can discover the secrets of wine production and toast to the flavors of autumn.

      💚 We are waiting for you in Umbria 💚

      What to do in Umbria in October? UmbriaSì tells you

      October in Umbria: When Autumn Magic Embraces the Green Heart of Italy!

      Dear lovers of autumn adventures and breathtaking scenery, prepare to be enchanted! Umbria, that little gem hidden in the green heart of Italy, transforms into a true natural spectacle during the month of October. Golden and red leaves paint the landscape. It’s the perfect time to explore this enchanting region.

      Here are our three tips on what to do in Umbria in October

      Unique autumn atmosphere

      The medieval villages of Umbria are tinged with warm autumnal shades, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for walks and relaxation.

      Perfect landscapes for trekking

      The Umbrian paths become ideal for autumn excursions, with the foliage that paints nature in red, orange and yellow, perhaps savoring the best that this land has to offer

      Taste autumn in Umbria

      In October you will find many events dedicated to typical products such as truffles, new oil, new wine and chestnuts, where you can taste local delicacies directly from the producers.

      💚We are waiting for you in Umbria💚

      Mostaccioli

      In the month of September, typically known for the grape harvest and the grape harvest, we find a famous traditional dessert from Umbria
      According to tradition, mostaccioli were the favorite dessert of Saint Francis who tasted these “good and fragrant” biscuits, as the saint said, during his first stay in Rome.
      Offering what would become her perennial “sin of gluttony” was Jacopa de’ Settesoli, a Roman noblewoman, who became a collaborator of the newborn Franciscan movement and a dear friend of Saint Francis, so much so that he affectionately called her Friar Jacopa. It is said that Saint Francis liked these sweets so much that he desired them even at the point of death!
      Ingredients
      Flour 600 g
      Sugar 200 g
      Raisins 50 g
      Brewer’s yeast 50 g
      Must 300 ml
      Zest of 1 lemon
      Extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons
      Anise seeds (if desired)

      Preparation
      After sifting the flour, arrange it in a well and add the oil, sugar, sultanas and anise seeds. Mix everything and, once the brewer’s yeast has dissolved in the must, add it to the mixture, continuing to knead until you obtain a dough that can easily be detached from the work surface.
      At this point, stretch the dough with your hands to obtain a cylinder, cut it into small pieces and give your mostaccioli the appearance you prefer: diamond-shaped or in the shape of a small donut. Then place them on the baking tray with baking paper. Bake them at 180 degrees and let them cook for about 30 minutes. Once ready, sprinkle a little icing sugar on top.

      Curiosity
      Cooked must was a typical sweetener throughout peasant Italy and was obtained by cooking fresh must for many hours in low, wide copper containers. Over time, this delicious but time-consuming ingredient has been replaced by sugar.
      Cooked must is produced by pressing well-ripe grapes, with a higher sugar quality than that required for the production of wine (23-25% sugar), subsequently filtering the juice obtained. After this, the juice is cooked in containers traditionally made of copper or terracotta, but today replaced by stainless steel. Once boiled, it continues to cook over a low heat for several hours, until the liquid shrinks by a quarter of its initial volume. In many southern regions, “mostaccioli” are famous, desserts made from cooked must, but with a rhombus shape that differentiates them from our tradition.

      Copyright foto La gazzetta del gusto
      Umbriatourism

      Foliage in Umbria

      The Green Heart of Italy warms up with colors in autumn: from September Umbria lights up with red, yellow and orange!

      After the summer heat, nature blows its most beautiful colors and, temporarily abandoning the green, it colors before the arrival of winter. Autumn in Umbria is made up of the smell of leaves, of wood burning in the first fireplaces that are lit.

      It is the season of harvesting and pressing the olives, then boiling the musts and mills where you can taste the bruschetta with the new oil.

      Don’t miss a bike ride along the Strada del Sagrantino, with its purple vines, or a walk in the woods, such as the Bosco di San Francesco in Assisi, where you can admire the autumn foliage, or go with the children to collect chestnut curls in the area of ​​Città di Castello.

      What to do in Umbria in September? UmbriaSì tells you

      Perfect Climate and Postcard Landscapes: Umbria in September Version

      September is the ideal month to discover Umbria, when the summer heat gives way to a cooler and more pleasant climate. The days are still long and sunny, perfect for exploring the picturesque medieval villages, trekking among the green hills, and enjoying the charm of the landscapes that are starting to take on the colors of autumn. Imagine walking among golden vineyards and fields of sunflowers, with the fresh air making every outdoor activity a real pleasure.

      Here are our three tips on what to do in Umbria in September

      September is the harvest month, a magical time in Umbria when the vineyards are tinged with warm colors and the air smells of must. Participating in events such as Cantine Aperte in Vendemmia is a unique experience: you can visit the cellars, discover the secrets of wine production and participate in guided tastings.

      The areas of Montefalco, famous for its prized Sagrantino, and Bevagna, with its white and fruity wines, are ideal for a day dedicated to taste. Don’t forget to taste the local products paired with the wines, such as cured meats, cheeses and bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil

      September offers ideal temperatures to discover the wonderful Umbrian landscapes. Trekking lovers will find in the Sibillini Mountains or on Mount Subasio paths immersed in nature, among woods, flowery meadows and breathtaking views. For those who prefer cycling, the Vecchi Ferrovia Spoleto Norcia route is perfect: a suggestive route that crosses fields, medieval bridges and villages rich in history. Furthermore, Lake Trasimeno, with its cycle paths and the possibility of combining bikes and boats to reach the islands, offers a relaxing and regenerating experience.
      In September, Umbria comes alive with festivals and historical reenactments that celebrate local traditions. Each Umbrian village has its own unique charm during this period, with romantic views that light up with the colors of autumn.

      💚 We are waiting for you in Umbria 💚

      Experience an Incredible Adventure: Rafting in Umbria

      If you are looking for an adventurous and engaging experience, rafting in Umbria is the perfect choice. Umbria, the green heart of Italy, offers breathtaking landscapes and rushing rivers that lend themselves magnificently to this exciting sport.

      Umbria is one of the most fascinating destinations for rafting thanks to its variety of rivers and the natural beauty of the territory. Nestled between green hills, ancient forests and spectacular mountains, the region offers waterways that wind through uncontaminated landscapes, making each descent a unique and unforgettable experience.

      The three reasons why you should consider rafting in Umbria

      1. **Contact with nature:** During rafting, you will have the opportunity to experience nature directly, discovering hidden corners and breathtaking landscapes that only the river can offer.
      2. **Adrenaline and fun:** Rafting is a dynamic and adventurous activity, perfect for those looking for strong emotions and guaranteed fun, both for beginners and experts.
      3. **Activities for everyone:** Suitable for groups of friends, families and couples, the rafting experience in Umbria is designed to be accessible to everyone. all, with routes of varying difficulty and expert guides who guarantee safety and fun.

      In Umbria, the main waterways suitable for rafting are along the Nera River or its tributary the Corno River, which flows through the picturesque Valnerina, and near the Marmore Falls.

      Rafting in Umbria is an experience that offers adrenaline and natural beauty in a single adventurous package. Whether you are an expert rafter or a beginner looking for excitement, Umbria has something to offer everyone. With routes that pass through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the region, a rafting adventure here is not only a sporting activity, but an opportunity to connect with nature and discover the charm of Umbria from a unique perspective.

      Don’t miss the opportunity to experience an unforgettable adventure among the Umbrian rapids this summer.

      💚We are waiting for you in Umbria💚

      What to do in Umbria in August? UmbriaSì tells you

      August in Umbria is a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and discovery. Between uncontaminated nature, local traditions and cultural events, you will find everything you need for an unforgettable holiday.

      Here are our three tips on what to do in Umbria in August

      Refresh yourself in nature: rivers, lakes and waterfalls.

      In August, Umbria is a perfect destination for a holiday that combines nature, culture and traditions. Hot days can be refreshed by exploring unique places such as the Marmore Falls, where water and greenery come together in a regenerating atmosphere. You can relax on the shores of Lake Trasimeno, enjoying a swim or a kayak ride, or immerse yourself in the clear waters of the Nera River, perhaps experiencing the thrill of rafting or simply enjoying the quiet of these natural places.

      Participate in summer events: local culture and traditions.

      The month of August is also full of events that celebrate Umbrian culture and traditions. You can attend concerts and shows at the prestigious Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto or be fascinated by historical re-enactments such as the Palio dei Terzieri in Città della Pieve, where time seems to go back with costume parades and archery competitions. For lovers of good food, food and wine festivals offer a journey into the authentic flavors of the region, including truffles, wild boar and fine wines.

      Experience a slow holiday, away from the crowds.

      If you want a quiet and regenerating break, Umbria is the ideal place to discover its relaxed pace. You can stroll through silent streets in medieval villages, where time seems to pass more slowly. August is also the perfect time to treat yourself to a visit to the abbeys and monasteries hidden among the hills, where spirituality and peace reign supreme. Take advantage of this month to immerse yourself in the small pleasures of life, such as enjoying a coffee in a quiet square or walking through the vineyards, enjoying the view without haste.

      💚 We are waiting for you in Umbria 💚

      Journey into history along the Via Flaminia: discoveries between Umbria and Marche

      Journey into history along the Via Flaminia: discoveries between Umbria and Marche

      Our itinerary along the ancient Via Flaminia, traced by the Roman consul Gaius Flaminius in 220 BC, will allow you to take a fascinating journey between Umbria and Marche, along routes that have seen armies, pilgrims and merchants pass for over two thousand years.

      Starting from the picturesque town of Fossato di Vico. We will continue the journey through green hills and charming Umbrian villages, following the traces left by the Romans, until we reach Acqualagna, the city of truffles. Along the way, we will discover fascinating Roman ruins, ancient abbeys, medieval fortresses and breathtaking views, making each stop an opportunity to explore and reflect.

      Let’s get ready to live an unforgettable adventure, between history and nature, along the historic Via Flaminia.

      The first stop on our itinerary is FOSSATO DI VICO. Its strategic importance was at the origin of its early development, but also the cause, after the fall of the Roman Empire, of violent clashes and subsequent disputes and dominations throughout the Middle Ages. Of extraordinary beauty are the “Rughe”, a road covered with round stone vaults, a rare example of thirteenth-century castle architecture with a predominantly defensive function.

      Not far away we will encounter SIGILLO, the village at the foot of Monte Cucco. Located along the Via Flaminia, it preserves important architectural testimonies, such as the Churches of Sant’Andrea (13th century) and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta di Scirca, in the hamlet of the same name (13th century). Just outside Sigillo, above the Fonturci stream, there is an Augustan bridge, the Ponte Spiano, made of cornelian stone blocks, 32 meters long and 3.25 meters wide at the vault.

      The natural environment is certainly the true wealth of Sigillo and the nearby COSTACCIARO, which have made their territory, within the Monte Cucco Park, the ideal destination for lovers of sports tourism, with suggestive bike itineraries and exciting jumps with hang gliding and paragliding.

      Continuing our itinerary along the Via Consolare we enter SCHEGGIA E PASCELUPO. The oldest name of Scheggia is Ad Hensem, linked to the events of the Via Flaminia, along which a Roman Temple dedicated to Jupiter Penninus was built. Worth mentioning is the Ponte a Botte, built on the La Foce stream, along the Via Flaminia in the direction of Cantiano (so called for its structure in the shape of a perfectly circular barrel of 22 meters in diameter, also called the Barrel of Italy).

      We now leave Umbria to enter the territory of the Marche and reach CANTIANO, the town of black cherries, Borgo Bandiera Arancione Touring where another Roman bridge, in Pontericcioli, awaits us. The elements of nature cradle Cantiano, with Mount Catria towering over it from above and whose mountain water springs provide another fundamental ingredient, together with the barley grown on site, for the production of the excellent Birra del Catria.

      After being inebriated by the typical products of the place, we continue our itinerary towards CAGLI, where you immediately notice that Romanity still reigns supreme with its perfectly preserved Ponte Mallio located in the Archaeological Area just a stone’s throw from the historic center. And right in the rooms of the Palazzo Pubblico, another place makes us understand how “Roman” this area of ​​the Marche is: the Archaeological Museum and the Via Flaminia of Cagli.

      Finally, we leave Cagli and head towards the GOLA DEL FURLO. Here, nature offers us an unforgettable spectacle: a canyon carved into the rock, with imposing walls that leave us breathless. We walk along the hiking trails, exploring the Roman tunnel, an ancient work of engineering that facilitated the passage on the historic Via Flaminia.

      Our journey culminates in ACQUALAGNA, famous throughout the world as the truffle capital. Here, markets and events related to the precious mushroom are often held. It will be possible to visit the Truffle Museum, where you can learn the history and culture of this precious mushroom, and why not do a guided tasting, savoring the local truffle-based specialties.

      Our itinerary from Fossato di Vico to Acqualagna, along the historic Via Flaminia, ends with a rich experience of history, nature and gastronomic culture, making every moment of the journey an unforgettable memory.

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