Wild boar hide from sight, except on menus

Umbria is known as the “Green Heart of Italy,” and it is a very apt description of this small region. Located in the center of Italy, Umbria is bordered by Tuscany and Lazio, between their cities of Florence and Rome, as well as the region of Le Marche. It is the only province of central Italy without a coastline, and its landscape is formed by the Appenine Mountains that majestically cross this region. Lush woodlands and fields, hills and mountains look down on river valleys. The mighty Tiber River begins in Umbria, and Italy’s fourth largest lake, Lake Trasimeno, is here. Agriculture is an important part of its economy, the olive oil is well known, and Umbria produces the most truffles in Italy. The ceramic products from towns such as Deruta, Gubbio and Orvieto are famous worldwide.

	The centuries-old hand-painted ceramics tradition flourishes in the Umbrian town of Deruta

Visitors to Umbria will be impressed by the sight of numerous picturesque towns and farmhouses perched on hilltops above the valleys. Many of these towns have rich Etruscan origins, are the home of medieval and Renaissance art, and are filled with sights of historic and religious interest. They have preserved their medieval character, and offer opportunities for walks and exploration. Villa renters will find that Umbria is a wonderful area for day trips. Perugia, where chocolate has been made since the 12th century, is the administrative capital of Umbria and is filled with remains of its Etruscan and Roman past. A cultural center with several universities, including one for foreigners, Perugia offers important museums and architecture.

Gubbio, a well-preserved medieval hill town to the north of Perugia, has much character and is a fascinating place to explore. The tower of its 15th century Palazzo Ducale dominates the town, and there are important historic and artistic treasures dating back to Etruscan times. One of the most famous Umbrian towns is Assisi, a pilgrimage site that houses important religious buildings and works of art by Giotto.

Umbria's fascinating medieval hill towns, like Gubbio, are well worth a visit

The medieval town of Todi is also very well preserved and authentic, with lovely vistas of the countryside from its very high perch. Its large squares, museums and churches are well worth some time to enjoy. Spoleto is also a medieval gem, which combines its interesting architecture with cosmopolitan culture (the annual summer Spoleto Festival) and restaurants, and proximity to beautiful natural areas that are wonderful for walks. Orvieto, built on tufa cliffs high above the valley, is the home of a magnificent cathedral, important works of art, and a center for ceramics. Its Etruscan origins can be viewed in a fascinating tour of “Orvieto Underground.” Other interesting towns in Umbria are Spello, Citta della Pieve, Trevi, and the hilltop and wine producing center of Montefalco. Visitors renting farmhouses in Orvieto can reach Rome by train in about an hour.