A Guide to Umbria

An evocative, enchanting, almost mystical atmosphere seems to pervade the air and, sooner or later, almost all those visiting Umbria come to the conclusion that St. Francis, the great, gentle, and poetic Saint of content and simplicity, could not have been born anywhere else. Indeed there is no lack of religious significance in this “green heart of Italy” as Umbria is called. In a land where the entrancingly beautiful and unspoilt nature reigns supreme, one also finds the mystical heart of the nation, as testified by St Benedict, Saint Chiara and, of course, St Francis.

This small region is rich in little hill towns, each and every one of them housing their own artistic and architectural masterpieces. To talk of historic centres is somewhat inadequate, given that the towns are literally scattered with monuments and artistic features of great historical relevance throughout. Umbria really is the most magical destination to enjoy a holiday walking in a region steeped in both history and in nature.