There are places that seem to have come straight out of a fairytale, and Rasiglia, nicknamed the "village of streams" or the "little Venice of Umbria", is one of them. As you can imagine, this small village is famous for the rivulets, artificial canals, and waterfalls that flow through its narrow streets and squares, creating a magical atmosphere. It is the perfect place for those looking to discover a corner of Italy where time seems to have stopped, surrounded by history, nature, and a refreshing tranquility, nestled among the gentle Umbrian hills. But what can you do in Rasiglia and its surroundings? Let's find out together.
Where is Rasiglia located?
Rasiglia is located in the heart of Umbria, about 18 kilometers from Foligno, along the road that leads toward Sellano and the Valnerina, near the springs of the Menotre River. This small village, perched at an altitude of about 600 meters, is easily accessible by car or public transport from the main Umbrian towns. Its strategic position makes it an excellent base for exploring the many treasures of the region, all while immersed in the tranquility of nature.
A village suspended in time: a brief history of Rasiglia
The history of Rasiglia dates back to the Middle Ages when the village began to develop as a fortified outpost along one of the main routes connecting Foligno to the Apennines. Over the centuries, Rasiglia became an important artisan and industrial center, thanks to the presence of numerous water springs from the Menotre stream, which powered mills, fulling mills, and dye works. Wool processing and weaving were the village's main activities for centuries, ensuring not only the survival of the community but also spreading its fame far beyond the borders of Umbria. These activities remained active until the first half of the 20th century, and then the 1997 earthquake caused many inhabitants to leave the village and move to the surrounding cities. Despite this, the distinctive feature of Rasiglia's history is the balance that can still be admired today between man and nature: even now, visitors can explore the remains of ancient mills and textile workshops, which tell the story of a past filled with traditions, hard work, and great ingenuity.
What to see in Rasiglia
It is a very small village, which can be explored in a short time, but it captivates visitors with its uniqueness and the variety of charming views. Its special feature is precisely the ability to stroll through the cobblestone streets of the town, among several small streams that run through the village. Let's discover some of the things you can see.
The Capovena spring and the Peschiera
The Capovena spring, located at the upper part of the village, at the foot of the building that once housed the Trinci family during their rule over the Foligno area, is the beating heart of Rasiglia. From here, the crystal-clear waters branch out to form the characteristic rivulets and small waterfalls that run through the village's streets. These were once essential for powering the artisan tools and providing running water for the public washhouse, where women would gather to wash clothes. The waters of the spring eventually collect in the "Peschiera," a large central basin that recalls the one in Bagno Vignoni, in the stunning Tuscan Val d'Orcia. However, in Rasiglia, the continuous sound of running water accompanies visitors to every corner, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere before flowing into the Menotre River.
The mills, the ancient dye works and the public wash house
One of the most fascinating features of Rasiglia is the opportunity to admire the remains of ancient mills, dye houses, and other craft tools that tell the story of a busy past. Among these stands the public washhouse, a place that, in addition to providing running water for laundry, was also a social space where the women of the village would gather to work.
Another stop is the old mechanical loom from the late 19th century, which reflects the importance of weaving in the village's history. It was a Jacquard model, considered cutting-edge for its time, to the point that it revolutionized weaving techniques around the world. By admiring it, you can discover how the power of water was used to drive the mechanisms necessary for the production of fine fabrics, once renowned throughout the region.
The Church of Saints Peter and Paul
The Church of Saints Peter and Paul, built in 1745, represents a spiritual and historical landmark for Rasiglia. The bell tower, adorned with a clock and positioned to the left in alignment with the façade, was added in 1754, giving the structure a harmonious yet austere appearance. It is a simple yet elegant building, starting with its façade, which is enhanced only by a terracotta portal topped with two large rectangular windows that allow natural light to enter. After the damage caused by the 1997 earthquake, the church underwent restoration and seismic improvement interventions, returning to its former splendor.
The remains of the Rasiglia Castle
Overlooking the village, the remains of the Rasiglia Castle tell the story of its medieval origins and the strategic role this place played in centuries past. Likely built around the 13th century, the castle was part of a system of fortifications that protected the routes connecting the Menotre Valley to the Umbrian Apennines. Today, as you stroll through the ruins, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the village and the surrounding landscape, while the ancient stones speak of battles, legends, and a community that found refuge and protection in the castle.
What to see around Rasiglia
The surrounding area of Rasiglia is rich in places to explore, allowing you to take a real tour to discover some of the most charming small villages in the region.
Foligno: Just a short distance away, this lively city offers a mix of history, culture, and gastronomy. Don't miss the beautiful Piazza della Repubblica and the Cathedral of San Feliciano.
Spello: Located just about half an hour from Rasiglia, it is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, known for its charming stone streets adorned with flowers and its extraordinary historical landmarks. Don't miss the Baglioni Chapel, frescoed by Pinturicchio, and its perfectly preserved Roman walls.
Sellano: located just a few kilometers from Rasiglia, it is a village immersed in the tranquility of the Umbrian hills. Strolling through its medieval streets, you can admire the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the Town Hall, both testimonies to a rich historical past. In the surrounding area, the hamlets offer breathtaking landscapes, natural hot springs, and trails ideal for nature lovers.
Abbey of Santa Croce in Sassovivo: this enchanting monastic complex, just a few kilometers from Foligno, is surrounded by a dense forest and offers an extraordinary panoramic view of the valley below.
What to eat in Rasiglia
And after a day of exploration, nothing is more rewarding than savoring the typical flavors of this extraordinary region. In Rasiglia and the surrounding areas, you will find trattorias and restaurants where you can taste dishes from the local tradition, prepared with simple and genuine ingredients. There are plenty of opportunities to try specialties such as tagliatelle with truffle, torta al testo, or the typical cured meats and cheeses of the region. We recommend letting yourself be guided by the aromas and stories of the locals, to discover the places where cuisine intertwines with the history and culture of the area.
Where to sleep near Rasiglia: Tenuta di Montecorona
As mentioned, Rasiglia is a small village that can be visited in half a day. For those who wish to extend the charm of this place with a stay immersed in the Umbrian nature, the Tenuta di Montecorona, located near Umbertide, is an ideal choice. Surrounded by 2,000 hectares of land, this splendid estate sits in the heart of an impressive Camaldolese abbey, the Abbey of San Romualdo, which has welcomed pilgrims with its guesthouse since ancient times. Today, the Abbey houses a refined accommodation facility, perfect for those seeking relaxation amidst the tranquility of the Umbrian hills, and for savoring the delicacies of the Abbazia di Montecorona restaurant, famous for its local dishes and the extra virgin olive oil DOP “Umbria Colli del Trasimeno".
During your stay, you will have the opportunity to take part in unique experiences: stroll through the estate's olive groves and orchards, renowned for their olive oil production and local peaches, or explore the ancient Eremo di Montecorona, which overlooks the valley with its timeless charm. You can also taste the wines of Còlpetrone, adding a special touch to your visit.
For an unforgettable wine experience, a visit to Còlpetrone, the winery of Tenute del Cerro located near Montefalco, is a must. Here, you can taste the famous Sagrantino di Montefalco, along with other wines that are symbols of the local wine tradition, while participating in dedicated tasting tours.
The Tenuta di Montecorona is not only an elegant and peaceful retreat but also a strategic starting point to explore the wonders of the region, from Spello to Spoleto, through Assisi and Perugia. In short, visiting Rasiglia means being amazed by the magic of water and the history that can be felt in every stone, and it is true, but this can only be the beginning of an even more surprising journey...
