What to see in Spoleto in one day
The medieval village of San Gemini is located in a strategic position to discover the wonders of Umbria, a region rich in natural oasis and historical, artistic and religious testimonies that are concentrated in the various inhabited areas that dot its territory.
So, during a holiday in San Gemini, it is advisable to visit the small towns located in its surroundings as Spoleto, Terni, Amelia and Narni.
Spoleto, for example, the location of the successful fiction Don Matteo, broadcasted for a decade by the Italian state television, hosts important Roman remains and medieval complexes, included in the UNESCO Heritage List.
Discover what to see in Spoleto in one day:
The Rocca Albornoziana
Among the attractions to see in Spoleto in one day, there is the Rocca Albornoziana, an imposing and elegant fortress built in 1359 on the top of Mount Elia.
The Rocca Albornoziana was built at the behest of Pope Innocent VI to militarily reinforce the authority of the Papacy, in view of the return of its siege to Italy from Avignon.
This marvellous building, a symbol of Spoleto, is characterized by a rectangular plan and two courtyards, one reserved for the armed forces and one for the administrators and governors.
Inside the Rocca Albornoziana, you can admire wonderful frescoes that decorate the Hall of Honor and the Pinta Chamber and visit the National Museum of the Duchy of Spoleto to discover the long history of this town and the prominent political role played in the High Middle Ages. In this museum, you can also see many valuable works dating back to the Renaissance.
- Useful information: The visiting hours of the Rocca Albornoziana vary according to the seasons and days of the week so check them before planning the visit. To access this complex you need to pay a ticket that costs € 7, access for children up to 17 years is free.
Dove si trova Spoleto e cosa visitare:
Spoleto è una citta in provincia di Perugia a pochi chilometri da San gemini (circa mezz’ora di strada in macchina) e qualche minuto in piu’ da Narni. Ecco un fantastico video sulle bellezze di Spoleto
The Bridge of the Towers
If you decide to spend a day in Spoleto, another unmissable attraction is the Bridge of the Towers, an imposing facility that connects the Rocca Albornoziana and the Fortilizio dei Mulini.
This magnificent bridge of late medieval origin is 230 meters long and is supported by nine pylons more than 82 meters high.
The Bridge of the Towers is a facility of great charm and offers breathtaking views on the surrounding area.
- Useful information: the Bridge of the Towers can be crossed by car or by foot.
The Roman Theater
The Roman Theater is another of the wonders of Spoleto to visit during a one-day trip.
This theatre, an important testimony left by the Romans in the Umbrian territory, dates back to the 1st century BC. and has a diameter of 114.40 meters. During the centuries one of its parts was destroyed to be incorporated in adjacent buildings but, thanks to important restoration work, now you can admire most of this complex.
Today the Roman Theater of Spoleto is part of the State Archaeological Museum and hosts ballets, shows and numerous events of the renowned Festival dei Due Mondi. Since 1958, this international festival has been annually held in Spoleto and its calendar includes many cultural and musical events.
- Useful information: the Roman Theater of Spoleto is open every day from 8.30 to 19.30.
The Cathedral
One of the unmissable attractions to see during a day trip to Spoleto is its Cathedral, one of the most beautiful examples of Italian Romanesque style that stands in the homonymous square overlooked by wonderfull noble palaces as Palazzo Rancani and Palazzo della Signoria, the Church of Santa Maria della Manna and the small Caio Melisso Theater.
This church has ancient origins, its construction dates back to the twelfth century on the remains of the Church of Santa Maria del Vescovato destroyed by Federico Barbarossa, an emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.
Inside the Cathedral of Spoleto, it is possible to admire frescoes by Filippo Lippi depicting the Stories of the Virgin and a well-preserved autograph letter of Saint Francis.
The Duomo is also one of the most evocative locations of the Festival dei Due Mondi
The Church of Saint Saviour
Before ending your visit to Spoleto it is recommended a stop at the Church of Saint Saviour, now deconsecrated, erected on the hill of the Ciciano outside the medieval walls of the city in front of the cemetery.
This place of worship dating back to the VIII century is part of the network “Longobards in Italy: the places of power”, declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011 as it includes the highest expressions of the artistic and architectural skills of the Longobards.
Unfortunately, the Church of Saint Saviour can only be visited from outside due to the serious damage caused by the tremendous earthquake that struck Central Italy in 2016 and 2017, but its constantly open door allows you to have a good view of its interior.
- Useful information: The visiting hours of the Church of Saint Saviour area vary according to the seasons and the days of the week, so it is necessary to check them before the visit.