Among the most beautiful villages in Umbria there is Montefalco. It's located half an hour by car from Assisi, fifty minutes from Perugia, and just fifteen minutes from Foligno, one of the most scenic areas of the region.
Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Montefalco overlooks the plains of the Topino and Clitunno rivers from atop a hill. Due to this favorable panoramic position, it has been called the "balcony of Umbria" since 1568. On the clearest days, it is possible to enjoy a 360° view that stretches from Perugia to Spoleto, from the Subappennines to the Monti Martani.
Are you curious to learn more about this Umbrian gem? Let's discover what to see in Montefalco and its surroundings.
Montefalco's history
Montefalco owes its name to Frederick II of Swabia. Visiting these places in the 13th century and noting the large number of falcons in the area, the Emperor decided to change the name of the locality from Coccorone to its current name.
Around 1280, the city was conquered by Todi, as evidenced by the city emblem placed on a building to the right of the Porta di Sant'Agostino (the main entrance of Montefalco).
It was during the period of Todi's occupation that the cultivation of Grechetto grapes began, adding to the older tradition of red wine production. During the same period, the construction of the Palazzo Comunale and the most important religious buildings also took place. The city thus became the most important fortification in the area against Foligno and Spoleto until 1383, when it first came under the control of the Trinci family of Foligno and then, like other Umbrian towns, under papal dominion.
What to be seen in Montefalco
Montefalco preserves a rich artistic heritage that makes it an essential reference point for the knowledge of Umbrian painting - starting with the San Francesco museum complex which represents a synthesis of history. Surrounded by splendid medieval walls, inside the first wall there are many churches, including the one dedicated to Sant'Agostino. Arriving at the beautiful circular square, we find the aforementioned Palazzo Comunale, the former church of San Filippo Neri, now a theater, and the small church of Santa Maria de Platea. Also worth a visit are the Romanesque church of San Bartolomeo and the church and convent of Santa Chiara, inside which there is the oldest Sagrantino vine in Montefalco and Umbria, 150 years old. In summer, don't miss the event "La Fuga del Bove," which includes a historical parade and competitions between neighborhoods. This annual tradition transforms the square into an open-air theater.
Typical Cuisine: What to Eat in Montefalco?
The cuisine of Montefalco is essential, avoiding sophistication; it is genuine, simple, very balanced, and full of style. It is strongly tied to traditions and the celebrations of the past, featuring authentic products from the countryside and flavorful meats from local farms.
Where to taste Montefalco Sagrantino wine
Montefalco Sagrantino originates from the lands around Montefalco. A native red wine that owes its international fame to the favorable encounter between the characteristics of the territory, the climatic conditions of the area and the care of the Umbrian winemakers.
One of the most important producers in the Montefalco DOCG area is Còlpetrone, founded in 1995. The estate can be easily reached from Montefalco, Spoleto, Orvieto and Perugia - and it is just a two-hour drive from Rome. Visiting this special location of Tenute del Cerro, located in Umbria, offers the exclusive opportunity to participate in Sagrantino vertical tasting or most typical Montefalco wines tasting.
Perfect conditions for organizing a weekend dedicated to art and good food!
