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The fascinating Umbrian town of Orvieto is less than 30 minutes drive from Civitella. It sits in a spectacular position on a giant outcrop of rock high above the Tiber valley. The foundations of the city are Etruscan and date back to the eighth century BC but the city we see today is characterized by its medieval winding streets, far reaching views and, central to it all, one of the finest cathedrals in Europe.Construction of the Duomo was begun in 1263 and carried on for roughly three centuries. The elaborate façade with its gold mosaics and stunning 14th century bas-reliefs is contrasted by the vaulted medieval interior, warmly lit by alabaster windows.
Be sure to visit the Cappella di S. Brizio inside the cathedral (Tickets are on sale in the tourist office opposite) famous for its fifteenth century frescoes by Luca Signorelli. Such is the power of these frescoes that they later inspired Michelangelo for parts of ‘The Last Judgement’ in the Sistine Chapel.
Also worth seeing in the town are the thirteenth century buildings: Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo and Palazzo Soliano (now a museum). You can also go on a guided tour of the winding passages that honeycomb the interior of the rock on which the town stands or descend the sixteenth century well, il Pozzo di San Patrizio, 62 metres deep and famous for its double helix staircase.
Wander the charming streets, eat in one of the many excellent restaurants and soak up the atmosphere of this exquisite and relaxed town that gives its name to the world famous Orvieto wine.
