Perched on the flat summit of a volcanic butte, Orvieto is a picturesque town in Umbria. It’s ringed by defensive walls constructed from tufa stone and offers magnificent views across the surrounding countryside. In addition to boasting one of the most beautiful cathedral facades in the country, Orvieto conceals a fascinating network of underground tunnels.
Things to do in Orvieto
One of the city’s most majestic buildings is the Orvieto Cathedral, which was originally established in 1290. Its exquisite facade features golden mosaics and an impressive rose window while three immense bronze doors lead inside. Here you’ll find chapels painted with frescoes by celebrated Italian masters and a marble sculpture of the Pieta.
Snaking its way beneath the streets of Orvieto is a labyrinth of caves and tunnels that have been etched into the volcanic rock since Etruscan times. Join a guided tour to learn about the historical use of this underground city and the treasures that have been uncovered here. Don’t miss the Pozzo di San Patrizio, a 16th-century well designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger that can be accessed via a spiral staircase.
Findings from recent archaeological excavations are on display at the National Archaeological Museum, which occupies the 13th-century Papal Palace. Get up close to beautifully painted tombs and Etruscan-made bucchero, with these black ceramics coloured due to a unique firing process. Also housed within the palace is the Museo dell’Opera with its collection of centuries-old artworks.
Getting around Orvieto
Orvieto is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Rome and Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect from Rome and Florence to the Orvieto railway station, from where a funicular ascends to the old town. Most of Orvieto’s attractions can be accessed on foot.