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  • Writer's pictureshamildevanny

Orvieto - Umbria

A Hidden Gem in Central Italy


Orvieto Cathedral

Travel

One hour 15 mins by train from Roma Termini to Orvieto (return ticket) - €30.20 p/p

https://www.italiarail.com/


Termini Station –> (Trenitalia RV 2308 Firenza Santa Maria Novella) - > Orvieto Station ->Orvieto Stazione Funicolare ( FN - Busitalia – Sita Nord) -> P.Cahen Funicolare


The funicular stations are in Piazza Matteotti (the same as the train station) and in Piazza Cahen (up on the city center). The funicular (cable-car) leads you to the city center of Orvieto in a few minutes, and once you get out, in Piazza Cahen you can stroll along the main Corso Cavour or, alternatively, take the local urban buses that stop in the main squares (Piazza Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica) and streets. € 1.30 p/p


**When we arrived in Orvieto we caught the bus for Civita di Bagnoregio - see next post for more details.**


  • Orvieto is a town located in the Umbria region of central Italy. It sits atop a volcanic rock formation that rises above the surrounding countryside, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills.

Orvieto's town center is a wonderful place to explore, rich in history with charming streets, picturesque piazzas, and a wealth of cultural and architectural landmarks.

Orvieto

We visited Orvieto in the afternoon after Bagnoregio and did the guided tour of the Orvieto Underground.


Eat

Corso Cavour: This is the main street of Orvieto's town center, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a lively and bustling area, perfect for a stroll for both locals and tourists.


Route


1. Pozzo di S.Patrizio

2. Giardini Comunali Do Orivieta

3. Orvieto Cathedral

4. Orvieto Underground

5. Etruscan Museum

6. People Palace

7. Torre del Moro

8. Palazzo Dei Sette

9. Sant’Andrea

10. Well of the Cave


Orvieto has a rich history dating back to the Etruscan civilization, and it is famous for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.


  • Orvieto Cathedral - Orvieto Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a stunning Gothic-style cathedral located in the town of Orvieto, in Umbria, Italy. The cathedral is considered one of the most important and beautiful examples of Italian Gothic architecture.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1290 and was completed in the early 16th century. The cathedral was built to celebrate the miracle of Bolsena, a Eucharistic miracle that occurred in 1263 in nearby Bolsena.


Orvieto Cathedral

The exterior of the cathedral is decorated with intricate details, including stunning sculptures, intricate rose windows, and a beautiful facade featuring colorful mosaics. The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with a soaring nave, stunning frescoes, and intricate Gothic-style vaulting.

One of the highlights of the cathedral is the Chapel of the Madonna di San Brizio, which features frescoes by Luca Signorelli depicting scenes from the Last Judgment. The frescoes are considered some of the finest examples of Renaissance art in Italy.


Tickets Entrance to the Cathedral (including Chapel of the Madonna di San Brizio): € 5.00

  • Entrance to the Cathedral and the Underground: € 9.00

  • Entrance to the Cathedral, the Underground, and the Museum: € 12.00

  • Entrance to the Cathedral, the Underground, and the Museum, with guided tour: € 17.00

**It's always a good idea to check the official website or contact the ticket office directly to confirm current ticket prices and any discounts that may be available, especially as pricing can change over time.


  • Orvieto Underground Tour - The town is famous for its ancient underground tunnels, which were built during the Etruscan period and used as wells, cisterns, and storage areas.

Orvieto, Underground Caves

The tour will take you through a series of tunnels and caves that are over 2,500 years old. You'll see ancient wells, Etruscan pottery, and even a medieval pigeon coop. The tour is led by an experienced guide who will provide you with all the historical background and fascinating stories behind the tunnels.


Orvieto, Underground Caves

To take the tour, you can book your ticket at the Orvieto Tourist Office or directly at the entrance of the underground tunnels. The tour lasts about an hour and a half and is suitable for people of all ages. However, it is important to note that the tunnels can be narrow and dark, so if you have claustrophobia or mobility issues, it may not be suitable for you.

Overall, the Orvieto underground tour is a unique and fascinating experience that will take you back in time and give you a glimpse of Italy's rich history.

Orvieto Entrance to Well of the Cave

Pozzo di San Patrizio - An impressive 16th-century well that descends over 60 meters below the town, and the Etruscan Necropolis, a complex of underground tombs dating back to the 4th century BCE. €5 for adults and €3 for children

Orvieto is also renowned for its food and wine, with local specialties including wild boar, truffles, and the famous Orvieto Classico white wine. Overall, Orvieto is a charming town that offers a fascinating glimpse into Italy's rich cultural and historical heritage.


Orvieto

...Civita di Bagnoregio, coming next --->


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