Sitting on the gently sloping Mt. Subasio, Spello is another of Umbria’s picturesque medieval walled hill towns.

With its commanding view of the Umbrian plain, Spello is off the beaten track and gets little tourist attention compared to its popular neighbor, Assisi. And, this is definitely part of its charm.

As a Roman settlement, ”Hispellum” was located along the Via Flaminia. Her Roman origins are evident with three impressive Roman gates, remains of an amphitheater and several other medieval gates.

Spello is charmingly intimate, uncrowded and easily explored during a day trip. Entering the portals you are immediately greeted by an inviting labyrinth of cobblestone passageways and alleyways. Our expert local guide for the day, Marco, led the way as we navigated Spello’s lovely neighborhoods…

Click on any photo for a virtual walk!

Arriving on market day is always a special way to meet locals and enjoy local lifestyle…Everything from seasonal, local produce, clothing, flowers, household goods and a food truck serving “porchetta” panini bring locals back weekly to shop and browse.

Click on any photo for a virtual look!

Nicknamed Città d’Arte e dei Fiori, Spello has several events that revolve around flowers.

The annual l’infiorita, Spello’s Flower Festival when extravagant floral carpets (Infiorata) cover the streets, takes place in conjunction with the religious feast of Corpus Domini.

Although beautifully decorated passages are characteristic of Spello, there is an official competition (il concorso). During the Finestre, Balconi e Vicoli Fioriti, the balconies and “vicoli” (alleyways) are elaborately adorned by residents. They are judged, winners are recognized and award plaques are proudly displayed.

Click on any photo for a virtual walk!

Just off the main square is the lovely jewel, 12th century Santa Maria Maggiore.

At the entrance is Andrea Roggi’s beautiful modern sculpture with the inscription “Love opens the heart and mind”. Among the treasures inside is the Cappella Baglioni chapel with its exquisite series of frescoes by Pinturicchio (sorry but no photos are allowed).

Continuing into the piazza, the medieval Palazzo Comunale (communal building) is worth a visit as are the appealing artisan shops and inviting eateries.

Click on any photo for a virtual look!

Our other local guide, Julie, (who happens to live in Spello), suggested “Pinturicchio” for pranzo (lunch) and it was absolutely heavenly!

Click on any photo for a virtual look!

Enjoying Spello’s low key charm is indeed a day well spent.

If you would love to visit Italy’s green heart, Umbria, and enjoy Spello, Assisi, Orvieto, Spoleto and so many of her other charming hill towns, as we did…I can help!

Contact me and let’s plan YOUR dream trip to Umbria!