Ischia di Castro is a medieval town that dates to the Etruscan period. However, prehistoric artifacts, evidence of the Roman era as well a Longobard necropolis have been found and are housed in the City Museum-A significant and meaningful collection. Centuries of feuds existed between the nearby Farnesians and the Ischiani. The central part of the town dates from the 1530’s and 1540’s and includs a Palazzo-San Rocco. La Rocca protected the medieval center from invasion. Ischia will be the base location of your stay, strategically located to so many fascinating cities, historic sites, and bodies of water. Your ‘hotel room’ will likely be an apartment in part of a 16th Century palace. We will be using the entire medieval center as your hotel. Ischia di Castro is rich in history, restaurants, bars, and greenery. In the Summer, the city presents an assortment of concerts, festivals and shows. A delightful location for your authentic medieval experience.

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Assisi is the birthplace of St. Francis, who founded the Franciscan religious order in 1208 and where St. Clare founded the Order of the Poor Sisters. There are two Basilica’s: San Francesco d’Assisi and Santa Chiara. A UNESCO World Heritage site, you will find a rich history of the Umbrians, Etruscans, Early Christians, Lombards, independent Ghibilline, and constant struggles with the Guelph Perugia and finally Papal Rule mid 15th Century. The city remained inside Roman walls until the 13th Century. Assisi is a popular pilgrimage site as well as an amazing historical gem. The frescos in the lower Basilica are by Cimabue and Giotto; the upper church has frescoes now believed to be by Pietro Cavellini of Rome. Badly damaged by earthquake on September 26, 1997, it has been meticulously restored. Stop for gelato and a visit to the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli at the bottom of Monte Subasio.

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Civita di Bagnoregio

Labeled “the Dying Town,” Civita di Bagnoregio is literally falling off the cliffs due to prior earthquakes and normal erosion.  Founded by the Etruscans over 2500 year ago and birthplace of St. Bonaventure, the town was forced to move to the current Bagnoregio, formerly a suburb. The hilltop city, above the Tiber valley, is breathtakingly beautiful and a photogenic wonder.  Population estimated to be 7 in winter and up to 100 in summer.  Recent re-branding as a tourist attraction has also revived the city finances. It is one of the World’s most endangered cites and application as a UNESCO World Heritage site is not yet complete.  Walk the mile long bridge to the city, enjoy the views, take in the well tended gardens and enjoy lunch or dinner in one of the 40 or so restaurants.  Definitely worth the visit!

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Lots to see in Siena. page under construction, stay tuned for photos and description….

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Montepulciano

Another famous, medieval Tuscan gem-Montepulciano is a major produce of food and drink products-principally much recognized, award winning, Montepulciano wines.  Vino Nobile is considered Italy’s best wine.  In the center of a strategic and rich region, constant struggles, wars, ownership, governance and other misdeeds have left the town surprisingly intact. Come for the famous barrel race through the city every August 14. We can easily arrange a vineyard and wine tasting tour.

Saturnia

A very small town, on the hill above the Sulphur springs, was once the hideout of outlaws and subsequently razed. The name is derived from the Roman God Saturnius.  Occupied by Pelasgi, then Etruscans, Roman city walls still exist. Some decent dining options and a pleasant walk through the town are worthwhile.  The real treat is the Sulphur Springs, wide open, and always at 98 degrees.  A special treat is to view the stars on a clear summer night. A luxury spa is nearby and can be booked for a treatment, the day or a longer stay.  This is a delight and no trip to this region is complete without visiting.

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Orvieto

Rising well above the cliffs, in southwestern Umbria, one sees the magnificent Duomo from the surrounding countryside-especially luminous at night.  The five bells, tuned in E flat, date to the renaissance period. The Last Judgment, by Luca Signorelli is a compelling masterpiece. Fra Angelico’s fresco in the Chapel of San Brizio adds to the majesty of this Cathedral. An ancient Etruscan city, annexed by Rome, held by the Goths and Lombards before becoming independent, the medieval city maintained its historic authenticity and charm. Visit the well of St. Patrick for historical context.  We can arrange a tour of underground Orvieto- an intricate network of tunnels below the surface which permitted survival during times of siege. A fascinating tour not to be missed. Orvieto offers a medieval experience with a college town feel.

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Bagnaia

Nestled in the Cimini mountains, Bagnaia is known for its historic medieval city center, parts dating to the year 963.  Gorgeous architecture abounds, with parts of the center in need of repair.  A beautiful fountain, city arch, and tower adorn the square. Overlooking the city, is the marvelous and meticulously maintained gardens of Villa Lante.  Well worth a visit in any season.  Tradition calls for the Sacred Fire of St. Anthony-over 8 meters high and 30 wide, turned on every January 16th.

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The Eternal City for good reason

Rome suggestions

Montalcino, Pienza, San Mineato

All located in the internationally recognized wine producing region of Tuscany, Montalcino, Pienza and San Mineato offer a taste of medieval Italy, modern technology, old fashioned wine growing, making and tasting wine, with delights around every corner! Etruscan, Ghibelline, Guelph, Papal, Roman-all have left their mark.  Pienza is a UNESCO World Heritage site. San Mineato offers stunning vineyard views of Tuscany, world class dining options and an impressive local museum. Revel in Truffle hunting and cooking as many festivals are hosted throughout!  Find the perfect wine to accompany.  Take a cooking class. Lear how to make olive oil.  So much to explore in this region…include a day or two to explore.

Villa d’Este, Hadrians villa

Teatro Boni - Acquapendente

Teatro Marcelo - Roma

Teatro Lea Pavoni - Montalto di Castro

Teatro Sistina - Roma

Auditorium Parco della Musica - Roma

Terme di Caracalla - Roma

Teatri India, Argentina and Torlonia - Roma

Teatro Mancinelli - Orvieto

Viterbo

Viterbo is the main city in the northern region of Lazio. Anything you need can be found here, like most metropolitan cities.  Don’t be fooled though, the historic medieval city center still retains its original walls constructed in the 11th and 12th centuries.  The ancient entrance gates serve as an immediate example of the architecture of the time. Since Popes had much trouble controlling Rome, many set up residence in Viterbo. The historic center is exceptionally well preserved, even though many structures are built upon ancient ruins. Notice the large number of exterior stairs, an architectural style particular to this city and region. Thermal baths surround the city with their magical healing qualities including Terme di Papi (Bath’s of the Popes). Much of the original baths have survived many invasions, changes of power and bombings of WWII. Almost every year, a new rumor floats that George Clooney is buying the palace, moving here and doing a film.  Every year we wait!  Much to enjoy in Viterbo.

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Canino

Small, Etruscan town, part of the Maremma Laziale.  Close to Vulci and the destroyed city of Castro. Napolean’s brother, Lucien was lord of and is buried in Canino. The small town is close to the sea, the Limone Park hills.  Grapes and olives are grown in this zone, notably the olive oil Extra Vergine di Oliva, from Canina olives.

Capodimonte

Capodimonte is on the southern edge of Lake Bolsena.  The long sandy volcanic beaches are perfect for sunbathing, taking a stroll, and dining outdoors while enjoying spectacular views.  Don’t miss sunset over the lake.

Gradoli

Small town dating to the middle ages, Gradoli once housed a Farnese summer Palace and Castle.  Some remains exist, but most have been lost to history.  Several restaurants offer stunning views of Lago di Bolsena along with delicious local dishes.  Minutes to the lake and beaches, Gradoli offers an authentic taste of Medieval Italy.

Latera

Authentic, medieval, strategic, architecturally stunning, historically significant, and just a charm, Latera can attribute its current beauty to the Farnese influence. Fountains, tufo, the lake-all make Latera a great destination to visit and enjoy its charms.  The church and castle are worth a visit.

Marta

Disputed Phoenician or Etruscan origins, there is no doubt the city was mired in surrounding squabbles. A walk along the medieval streets on the hillside offer magnificent views of the lake. A wonderful walking path bordering the lake offer many dining options.In summer, the octagonal Clock Tower (included in the coat of arms for Pierluigi Farnese) offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Participate in the Feast of the Madonna del Monte (Feast of the Past) at dawn every May 14. A beach town with the expected Italian flavor.

Montefiascone

On the southeastern part of Lago di Bolsena, and just north of the metropolis of Viterbo, Montefiascone is a well populated, vibrant and greatly historic medieval town. Etruscan, Roman, Eneolithic, Ghibelline, Papal-all phases of occupation and development are included as in most towns in the northern tip of Lazio.  Pope Martin IV stayed at the Rocca, and his greed, especially of the eels fished from the lake, inspired Dante to place him in Purgatory, in the frame of gluttons.  There is a restaurant on the lake named Purgatory and another named Paradiso, preserving Dante’s account!  It is said that Rossini set his Cinderella in this magical city-once defined as the Pearl of Upper Lazio. A wine festival draws thousands of visitors in August and there is an Arial flyover staged every year, spraying the proud colors of Italy. Absolutely a must while visiting the region.

Piansano

Local, small borgo with medieval roots, suffered much the same trajectory and fate of other nearby villages.  One key difference is that Piansano was bought and sold many times, as well as conquered.  Beautiful medieval buildings, parks and views await you in Piansano.

Valentano

Inhabited since prehistoric times, through the Etruscan Roman times, and the protection of the Farnese rulers, Valentano has remained alive and relevant.  As with all the surrounding towns, The Castro War of 1649 and the destruction of the central city of Castro, power transferred again.  The Rocca Farnese, formerly a palace, was briefly transformed into a monestary.  The administrative papers of the Castro, which contain rare recording of the history of the region, are housed in Valentano.  Anyone studying Ancient Rome, the Etruscans or the Farnese rule would be able to look to the Archives stored here for research.  A visit to the museum, library, a number of churches and a walk around the historic town will reward you handsomely.  Many homes have spectacular views of Lago di Bolsena. Within minutes of Ischia di Castro, you’ll most certainly want to visit.

Bolsena and Lago di Bolsena

The historic medieval town of Bolsena sits on the north shore of a lake with the same name.  A major tourist getaway during the summer, the town and lake offer boating, beaches, a museum, castle, churches, camping, shopping and a host of beautiful hotels and restaurants.  Reportedly the largest Volcanic lake in Europe, the area is the northernmost tip of Lazio, the Roman province.  There are two islands in the lake: Isola Bisentina partly accessible via ferry service from Capodimonte.  Churches, a temple, chapel, prison, Etruscan columbarium, a Franciscan convent and many other treasures abound. Martana Island is private.  It is said a cloth containing The Blood of Crist is housed in the Chiesa di Santa Cristina, Cappella di Miracolo and an annual festival, in period attire, is held on July 24, the feast of Saint Christina. Amazing food, palaces, shops and a host of activities make this a popular and much appreciated destination.

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Capalbio

Small municipality near Grosseto, in Tuscany, know for its wonderful wine production.  Red, white and rose wines are produced here, with the coveted “DOC” designations under strict requirements. Close to the sea and other mountainous medieval towns such as Orbetello and Manciano, well worth a wine tasting stop, take in the sea air, and revel in the history of the zone.  Take a detour to Il Giardino dei Taiocchi- The Tarot Garden.  Private and creative, esoteric sculpture garden by Niki de Saint Phalle.

Orbetello, Porto Ercole, Porto Santo Stefano

All located in Tuscany, on the Tyrrhenian Sea, each offers a diverse collection of beaches, historic city centers, wonderful seafood dining options, markets and natural parks and reserves. Monte Argentario seaside hill towns offer the best of Italy’s sea experiences. The exiled Baroque Italian painter Caravaggio died in Porto Ercole and is said to be buried in a local church. Take in a swim, hike, meal or museum and absorb all the region has to offer.  Visit the Spanish fortress and lookout towers above Porto Santo Stefano.

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Manciano and Montemerano

Etruscan medieval town and zone. Saturnia thermal springs nearby, leaning tower of San Lorenzo, ancient walls, proximity and view of the sea, 13th century frescoes adorning the church are all wonderful reasons to explore this beautiful Tuscan post. Christmas is an especially enchanting time.

Pitigliano

Pitigliano is a Tuscan town recently rediscovered and famously branded ‘Citta di Tufo” City of Tufo. Built on volcanic rock (Tufo), the medieval center includes a section known as The Little Jerusalem, including a rather extensive Jewish Museum. A definite on any tour, this jewel is a mecca of architectural innovation and beauty, along with a thriving wine and olive industry.  Shopping affords the opportunity to peruse interesting and local crafts, novelties and delicacies. Nearby cities to visit include Sovana, Sorano, Manciano, Montemerano and Saturnia.  All are historic, unique and rich in medieval heritage and nearly all are included in the ANCL list of the most beautiful villages in Italy.  All are marvelous choices for a destination wedding or special group event such as birthday celebrations, corporate and spiritual retreats, classes and group instruction.  Contact us to chat about the many options available. 

Spoleto

A marvelous medieval city, nestled near Everything: Perusia, Umbria, Apennines, Rome, Florence, Terni, Trevi.  Accessible by train from Rome highlights its geographic significance. Things to see: Roman house, Roman Walls , Bloody Bridge (1st C BC), Roman Amphitheatre, Duomo, San Rocco, Ponte delle torri, Basilica of San Salvatore (4th-5th C), San Domenico, and a host of other historically significant sites.  Just a treasure trove of Italian history.  Spoleto hosts a fantastic theatre and Art lover’s dream-every year-the Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of Two Worlds) founded in 1958 by Gian Carlo Menotti. This festival is one of the most significant cultural events in the world-spanning a three week schedule of over 500 cultural events and exhibitions every year.  Some of the most innovative work is showcased and premiered in Spoleto. A sister festival, founded in 1977-Spoleto Festival USA- is held in Charleston, South Carolina.  If you like theatre, the arts, music, dance, street buskers, anything at all art related, this is for you.  Concerts are regularly held in the Piazza Duomo, an experience not to be missed.  We can arrange a day, a week or a month….

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Ancona

One of the main Adriatic seaports throughout history, Ancona is located in the Marche region on the beautiful, warm and refreshing Adriatic Sea.  Smaller Cruise ships depart from this historic port to Albania, Croatia and other Adriatic destinations.  Nearby is Monte Conero, a stunningly beautiful coastal area, known for fantastic swimming, sunbathing, hiking and boating. Various incarnations include: Greek Colony, Roman Municipum, Byzantine City, Maritime Republic and a Papal State. Ancona was a truly diverse and inclusive city in the 16h century, wih merchants and their families settling here from all over the world. Ancona, because of it’s strategic location, played important roles in WWI,  WW2.  The Jewish population has a long and storied history in Ancona. Take advantage of the historic center, the beaches, cliffs, churches, shopping and wonderful restaurants on offer.

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Acquapendente

A center for production of vegetables, wine and pottery, Acquapendente was another Etruscan settlement during Roman Times. The Latin name means hanging water and is attributed to local waterfalls between Lazio and Tuscany. Under Papal Rule, the city gained independence from Siena. Located at one of the northernmost tips of Lazio, a vibrant Teatro Boni produces masterful works as well a summer Theatre festival featuring works from each of the major regions in Central Italy.

Arlena di Castro

Almost completely abandoned, Arlena di Castro was re discovered and re built in mid to late 1500’s.  A farming community, wheat and olives and sheep breeding are the primary industries.  Very small community with some historic significance.

Farnese

A typical medieval hilltop town, home to the Famous Farnese Family, with stunning and unexpected architecture.  Minutes to Tuscany, Farnese offers the affordability, benefits and simplicity of northern Lazio with the charms of Tuscany. The town is surrounded by the Lamone, a beautiful, dense National park with waterfalls, hikes, wild orchids and lots more!  Award winning restaurant Sole shares the stage with distinguished Ostello Ortensi offering clever, unique and delicious regional specialties. Your tour could originate here, as the town offers lodging and conference facilities as well as a favorite for destination weddings. The first episodes of the 1970’s TV series Pinocchio were filmed in this authentically preserved medieval village.

Grotte di Castro

Grotte di Castro, on the north part of Lago di Bolsena, is just above the lake.  The medieval town has been names, and renamed many times, Conquered and destroyed several times and rebuilt always with the strength and fortitude of a proud populace. Potatoes are the primary product of the region.  Many grottoes below the village offered refuge and shelter during strife and attack, also protected much Etruscan heritage and artifacts.  Nearby towns, such as Gradoli and San Lorenzo, were founded as a refuge and safe harbor from invasions of Grotte.  Beautifully restored, this stunning architectural gem is a must see.

Montalto di Castro

An antique city built to control the crossroads, it was invaded, captured and destroyed several times. The final blow left only a small medieval center with remains of the castle.  Charming, the city offers close proximity to the beaches of the Tyrrhenian Sea, a host of restaurants and nightlife, a beautiful new Teatro Lea Padovani offering the best of concerts, theatre and comedy and a friendly local population to mingle with.

San Lorenzo Nuovo

A village created to escape a Malaria epidemic closer to the lake, this Lazian town is on the border of Umbria and Tuscany. The region is rich in Etruscan history and was promoted as the ideal city according the customs and beliefs of the time. The neoclassical historical center, dated to the 18th century, gives evidence to the ‘Nuovo’ aspect of the name. Worth a stop for gelato in the central piazza before or after visiting the Church of S. Lorenzo Martire.  Visit during the San Giovanni Fair on June 24 or enjoy the Gnocchi festival every year just before Ferragosto (August 15).

Tuscania

Tus-cana (cana-dog).  Neolithic. Etruscan. Roman. Lombards. Papal. Diocese. Guelph. Ghibelline. King Charles VIII. Finaly the Kingdom of Italy in 1840. Much like other cities in the region, Tuscania endured a storied and violent history.  After a destructive earthquake in 1971, the town has been beautifully restored.  The medieval walls, spectacular views, city museum, local cuisine, cathedral, Tower of Lavello, and Etruscan necropolises-all offer a wonderful and educational look into medieval Italy and local struggles and endurance. We’ll include this on any local excursion nearby.

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Tarquinia

A fantastic UNESCO World Heritage site, the largest collection of Etruscan Art and an equally impressive collection of necropoleis (cemeteries-dating to the Iron Age).  Ancient is an understatement, wow factor is exceptional as there are over 6000 tombs.  The painted scenes afford a look into the Etruscan culture and daily life. A medieval village, impressive museum, lovely dining and entertainment options, all converge to make any visit to Tarquinia a jewel of an experience.  Be sure to visit the Romanesque-Gothic cathedral and the Santa Maria di Castello Church as 16th Century frescoes abound.  Some Tarquinian wines have been awarded DOC status, primarily red and white frizzante varieties.

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Vulci

Located near the Tyrrhenian sea and close to Montalto di Castro, is a national park and cherished treasure.  Much of the remains of the ancient tombs of the Vulci, along with a plethora of Etruscan tombs can be seen at this huge, beautiful park.  Summer concerts are often held, with admittance to the park prior.  An obviously affluent population, scant evidence exists recording their daily life.  The area was a major trading city, and moved along the times as other cities in the region did, through various invasions, occupations, and other calamities. In the 18th century, discoveries provided a more extensive look at Vulci life.  The necropolis discoveries uncovered artifacts that are displayed in museums all over the world.  Ancient ruins, including city walls,  can be seen throughout the property.  At least an afternoon, and better yet, a whole day to explore is warranted.  Vulci thermal baths are nearby as well as a large residential complex known as Villa of the Cryptoporticus.  Be sure to see the Temple, Roman Basilica and Roman Arch still standing today.

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