Just try to drive by it
My first visit to Orvieto happened when I was driving through Umbria on my way to somewhere else and saw an incredible hill town out the window. Detour! We ended up spending the afternoon.
The Duomo or Cathedral
Orvieto's cathedral is spectacular, and its façade does its job in the true sense of the word, giving the viewer the impression that the church behind it is much larger. Inlaid with marble and precious stones, it will also remind you of the Duomo of Siena. Don't miss the frescoes inside by Luca Signorelli.
Local Wine
The volcanic soil or tuffa in the area (and the material the town's sheer cliffs are made of), is the secret behind Orvieto's fabulous white wine. A lot of the local wine is exported, but it's always good to do a taste test and compare local and exported versions, because they're not the same.
There's also an interesting well, a papal palace, and an underground labyrinth of tunnels you may want to see, but the best part will be just wandering the town's streets, enjoying the views and soaking up the small medieval Italian hilltown atmosphere.
Photo of Orvieto from afar by Pizzodisevo, photo of Orvieto Duomo from www.istockphoto.com
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The Duomo or Cathedral looks fascinating, looks completely flat from the view that picture is from.
Posted by: Simon | February 05, 2010 at 01:49 AM
it does look completely flat doesn't it Simon! The facade is incredible but almost looks like it was tacked on after the rest of the building was built - definitely seems like a separate project just from looking at it.
Posted by: Madeline | February 05, 2010 at 03:22 PM
I visited Orvieto in my life. I think that is one of the most beautiful small cities of our country !
Posted by: Jerry de Concilio | February 08, 2010 at 01:32 PM
Orvieto is our favorite day trip from Rome. The beautiful cathedral, the funicular ride, the wine, the excellent porchetta sandwiches..... an excellent day trip!
Posted by: Rick Shores | March 06, 2011 at 07:55 AM