At the heart of Italy, Umbria conceals an artistic and spiritual treasure of unsuspected richness. This region, birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi, is home to some of the most beautiful basilicas and churches in the Christian world. Set out to explore this extraordinary heritage on an unforgettable journey through the jewels of Umbrian sacred art.
Your journey begins in Assisi, the iconic city forever linked to the figure of Saint Francis. The Basilica of Saint Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, opens its doors to a deep immersion in medieval art. Marvel at the sublime frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue adorning the walls of this sanctuary, erected in the 13th century. Take the opportunity to visit the crypt housing the saint's relics.
Nearby, the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli will astonish you with its imposing dimensions. Then pass through the doors of the Church of San Damiano and the Monastery of Saint Clare, walking in the footsteps of Francis and absorbing the serenity of these places steeped in spirituality.
Good to know: The Basilica of Saint Francis is composed of two superimposed churches — the upper church, bright and soaring, and the lower church, darker and more intimate. This architectural duality symbolises the spiritual journey, from darkness towards the light.
Your route then leads to Perugia, the capital of Umbria. The majestic Duomo San Lorenzo welcomes you, alongside the diocesan museum concealing masterpieces by Perugino. A short walk away, the Basilica of San Domenico impresses with its Gothic architecture. Do not miss the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria and its magnificent collection of Umbrian paintings from the 13th to the 19th century.
Head to Orvieto and its extraordinary Duomo, a true lacework of sculpted stone. The polychrome façade — a marvel of balance and refinement — unfailingly draws the eye. Inside, the Chapel of San Brizio and its frescoes by Luca Signorelli will plunge you into the eschatological world of the Renaissance.
Worth noting: Orvieto is also celebrated for its Well of Saint Patrick, a Renaissance masterpiece of engineering hewn into volcanic tufa. With its two spiral staircases and 248 steps, it stands as a testament to the architectural genius of the era.
Continue your artistic pilgrimage to Spoleto, where the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta proudly displays its Romanesque style. Its porch adorned with frescoes by Pinturicchio and its imposing bell tower will leave an indelible impression.
Your journey reaches a beautiful conclusion in Spello, at the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, a treasure chest of works by Pinturicchio. Let yourself be bewitched by the warm, luminous colours of the frescoes in the Baglioni Chapel — a true testament of Umbrian art, recognisable by its atmosphere of serenity and contemplation.
Beyond the basilicas, the Franciscan imprint permeates all of Umbria. The Way of Saint Francis, a hiking route linking the key places in the saint's life, offers a unique experience blending nature, spirituality and heritage. An invitation to walk in the footsteps of the Poverello along 500 kilometres dotted with hermitages and places of prayer, the better to grasp his universal message of peace and fraternity.
Good to know: The poet Dante Alighieri paid tribute to Saint Francis in his major work, the Divine Comedy, helping to forge the saint's renown across the centuries — proof of Francis's enduring influence far beyond the borders of Umbria!
For your stay in Umbria, Villa Allegria in Foligno is the ideal setting. This exceptional villa combines comfort, refinement and the Italian art of living. Ideally located as a base from which to explore the must-see sites, it will be your haven of peace after a day rich in emotion and discovery. Our team is at your disposal to organise your tailor-made circuit through the wonders of Umbrian sacred art.
In summary, here are the key facts to keep in mind for your artistic and spiritual journey through Umbria:
Sample 3-day itinerary departing from Villa Allegria in Foligno: Day 1 — Assisi and its four major basilicas. Day 2 — Perugia in the morning (the Duomo and the Galleria Nazionale), then Orvieto in the afternoon (the Duomo and the Well of Saint Patrick). Day 3 — Spoleto and Spello, between Romanesque and Renaissance. Everything you need for a unique experience at the very heart of Umbria's artistic and spiritual heritage!