Surroundings
Agriturismo Acquacalda is located only minutes away from the small town of Montone, which is certainly one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Italy. Built at the top of a hill overlooking the Upper Tiber Valley, Montone is the classical idea of the medieval village, perfectly preserved and unchanged for centuries. The massive walls surrounding the houses, give an appearance of solidity embellished by the soaring bell towers of the city. Narrow winding roads and stairs allow you to easily overcome the steepest points in a succession of unforgettable sites with fine architecture.
Citta di Castello is famous for its Roman past, its art galleries and festivals. The town has a rich museum and several Gothic – Renaissance churches and palaces. It has some excellent shops where you can try and buy local produce, including truffles, porcini mushrooms, hams and cheeses and Lo Sfizio wines. There’s a famous Chamber Music Festival in late August and early September, and a truffle festival in November.
At a distance of about 30 km lies the ancient city of Perugia, Italy’s most vibrant historical location, with a wealth of cultural, architectural sites and entertainment options, culminating in the October Chocolate Festival and July’s world-class Umbrian Jazz Festival. Piazza IV Novembre is the heart of the city. In the center there is a beautiful fountain, the Fontana Maggiore, surrounded by the Duomo, the Palazzo dei Priori, and medieval buildings. The Fontana Maggiore, made of pink and white stone, is decorated with elaborately carved panels showing the months of the year, Aesop's fables, astrological signs, mythical monsters, and more.The Palazzo dei Priori, where the town councilors used to meet, has some beautiful 13th century frescoes and wooden furniture. It houses the National Art Gallery of Umbria and 3 other museums.The Corso Vannucci is the main pedestrian street and is lined with elegant shops, bars, and restaurants. The Rocca Paolina is a fortress built over the old houses and buildings. You can wander through the underground remains of the streets and houses.Etruscan remains include the 3rd century BC Etruscan well, the Etruscan Arch (one of the city gates), and remains of the massive Etruscan wall around the city.
Assisi (35 km) is beautifully situated in the medieval heart of Umbria and is one of the most popular sightseeing and pilgrimage destinations in Italy. The historical center is full of distinguished monuments, collections of art and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Basilica di San Francesco is among the most popular and sacred places in Italy.The Upper and Lower Churches are decorated with frescoes by numerous late medieval painters and include works by Giotto, Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti.Another attractive sight is the Temple of Minerva, which has now been converted into the Church of Santa Maria della Minerva. Nearby, stands the Palazzo del Captiano del Popolo, with a stunning, tall tower and unique architecture. The Pinacoteca is a noteworthy art gallery which preserves 13th century artifacts including paintings, remains of ancient frescos and other relics. Rocca Maggiore is an impressive fortress dominating the town. It is well worth the climb to enjoy the fabulous views of the walls, the town, and the surrounding valley.
Gubbio (20 km) is a fantastic example of medieval architecture and is famous for its Eugubine Tablets, which date from 300 to 100 BC and constitute the best existing example of ancient Umbrian script. Among the main attractions are the Roman Theater where life performance are held, St. Ubaldo Basilica and the Ducal Palace. You can take a cable car ride up Mount Ingino or watch a medieval crossbow tournament. Even the highest waterfall in Europe, Cascate delle Marmore at Tereni can be reached in less than an hour.