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Orvieto » Arrival

The Cathedral / Duomo
(a photo by Matalyn)

Orvieto is picturesquely situated in the south-western corner of the Umbria region, right on the main tourist route from the great city of Rome to another very popular destination – the amazing Tuscan city of Florence. The millions of visitors to this enchanting Umbrian town each year are attracted mainly by the famous Duomo, one of the most awesome and majestic Gothic buildings throughout Italy and maybe throughout Europe too. Once admired its graceful and unparalleled façade and the impressive frescoes by Signorelli, you will be slightly disappointed by the rest of the historical centre, which is not as exciting as the city guides and the word of mouth describe it. The town is a little bit gloomy and this is so mainly due to the local dark volcanic stone tufa, which is the main constructing material used in the buildings or, more poetically, to the nostalgic atmosphere characterizing all other Etruscan cities, as it is believe that in ancient times the city participated in the league of the twelve most prominent Etruscan cities. Even after more than two millenniums it is not difficult to feel the more relaxing and cheerful air of the other towns in the region, those located east of the Tiber River and founded by another ancient people - that of the Umbrians, who did not created such advanced civilization as the Etruscans but they were more jovial and sunny people. In spite of all that Orvieto is an attractive and hospitable town. It boasts a superb natural setting and has exceptionally beautiful cathedral, as well as the rest of the old town also deserves at least 2-3 hours to explore it. If you get tired of historic and cultural sights or just have more time to spend here you can always enjoy a glass or two (or maybe a bottle) of the famous white wine produced locally.

View of Orvieto
(a photo by riccardo08)

The view of Orvieto from distance is really stunning. Its picturesque situation is almost as popular and marvelous as its Duomo. The town is perched on the flat top of a high plateau, formed millions of years ago buy the lava of an erupted volcano and raising some three hundred meters above the valley at its foot and naturally protected by very steep, almost vertical rocky slopes. Without any doubt the best panoramic views of the fortified old town you will enjoy by approaching it by car via the road winding among the hills south-east of the city. Viewed from the railway station and the shabby quarter around it, the city does not look so impressive and remarkable. But once you begin to climb the 3 km street leading from the station to the historical centre of town on the top of the plateau, you will clearly feel its full magnificence and uniqueness. If you arrive at the train station you can get on the lovingly restored funicular dating back to the 19th century, which will take you right to the Piazza Cahen, from where in a short (5-10 minutes) leisure walk along the pleasant pedestrian Corso Cavour you will find yourself right in the historic heart of the town.