Spello is one of those cities that just grabs you as soon as you enter its gates. It is old, very old. It was first populated by an ancient tribe called the Umbri and became a Roman colony in the 1st century BC. I can't imagine all the things that have transpired here or how many people have crossed its portals. There is so much history! If you have any interest in medieval art or architecture this is a must see town. There are so many significant churches, buildings and ancient ruins you could wander for days looking at everything.
Below are a few photos of one of its main churches - Santa Maria Maggiore, first known in 1059. Much of its art dates from the early 1500's. I have never seen a church like this and could have sat here for hours taking it all in.
Below are a few photos of one of its main churches - Santa Maria Maggiore, first known in 1059. Much of its art dates from the early 1500's. I have never seen a church like this and could have sat here for hours taking it all in.
Spello is also a city of flowers and there is a huge annual competition for decorating balconies, alleys and houses. The flowers spill into the streets and paint the city in vibrant living color. Here are a few photos of what is left in the middle of November.
There is a festival called the Infiorate which is the creation of 60 flower carpets on various streets and piazzas, and a three day festival going on right now that celebrates this fall's olive harvest and the new olive oil, olio nuovo. There are other events and festas throughout the year as well as theater productions and concerts.
Spello sits on the flank of Mt. Subasio so hiking the miles of trails here can be done throughout the year and it has also been named one of Italy's Most Beautiful Villages. It is one of our favorite places here, and if we return, it will likely be one of the towns we consider living in.
Spello sits on the flank of Mt. Subasio so hiking the miles of trails here can be done throughout the year and it has also been named one of Italy's Most Beautiful Villages. It is one of our favorite places here, and if we return, it will likely be one of the towns we consider living in.