The town is an hour or so train ride from Rome’s Termini Station. The trip costs 14-22 euros round trip depending on which train you take (the slower train has a few additional stops). Once you arrive in Orvieto, the funicular will take you up the hill.
Some tourists took the little bus from the funicular to the Duomo but it’s easy walking distance (you can walk the entire villiage in a an hour or two) and quite scenic.
This is a beautiful hill town in Umbria built on tufa rock. It has been settled for thousand of years and was an important Etruscan city.
The major attraction is the Duomo, started in 1290. It has a very ornate exterior. I don’t think I’ve seen a Duomo with such bright colors before.
Orvieto is also know for it’s local white wine, the Classcio, pottery and lace making. Get there early as the place is packed with tourists.
Once inside the Duomo, look for the San Brizio Chapel. It’s five euros to enter and the ticket also covers the fee for the Museum. It is worth the price as one of the Renaissance’s greatest frescos is located inside the chapel. Luca Signorelli's nudes because famous for the subject matter and the form. They inspired Michelangelo’s own Last Judgment for the Sistine Chapel.
The views from the hill town are spectucular. If you get a chance, take time to explore the town, getting away from the touristy part by the Duomo. It’s beautiful. There is a tour that takes you through the underground caves.
I look forward to exploring more of Umbria and Tuscany once I learn how to drive stick and get my Italian drivers license.
On my Flickr page I have more detailed photos of the exterior and the interior of Duomo and other shots of this bellissima town.
Here is a photo of the Signorelli fresco, The Preaching of the Antichrist. See the woman in the foreground with the red top? She is described as a “whore” who is accepting money for “services rendered”. She also has the face of Signorelli’s ex-girlfriend who had recently broken up with him. Damn, I guess he put her on blast.
A view of the countryside.
How much do I love the new Fiat 500/Cinquecento? The Italy strips on this one cracked me up.
A picture of the Duomo
12 comments:
The Duomo is truly spectacular. I can't get over the architectural details on the facing.
Orvieto Classico was one of my favorite wines.
I'm sure this was a lovely day, if the pictures are any indication. More lovely vicarious travels.
jen - It really is something else. I could spend hours looking at the detailing.
It was a gorgeous day.
Orvieto is a lovely place! I stayed there a few nights a few years back and remember it was nice and relaxing.
Sounds like you are getting around to so many places here in Italy. Good on you! I need to make day trips more but am a little lazy at times :)
i went there last november...it's beautiful! so close to you--glad you're taking advantage, lucky.
What a lovely birthday trip. (Belated 'Happy Returns')
His ex-girlfriend must have been seriously put out being portrayed like that.
leanne - I'm doing okay with places that are close to Rome. There are so many places I want to visit. I wish I had the $$$. ha
tracie b - isn't it? one day I hope to visit your former area.
casalba - thank you. I think he was salty because she dumped him. I wonder if she ever saw the frescos.
What a wonderful day out, especially on your birthday. The Duomo is beautiful.
anne - It was a nice day out. I know some think the Duomo is over-the-top but the colors are just beautiful.
I remember waiting 2hrs to see this
chiesa in Orvieto, it was lunch time, and 101 degree weather. When they finally opened the doors, i was turned away for having bare shoulders. Did i mention it was 101that day :) Anyway, i agree it is spectacular facade and bellisima village. I also want to say I love the new fiat cinquecento, so sweeet
cheers, Catherine
catherine - oh no. you didn't have a shawl or wrap with you? Bare shoulders are a no-no in most Catholic Churches. I love the new design of the Cinquecento.
I love that someone loves their Fiat enough to add raving stripes and show patriot pride,too!
new - I agree!
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