Spoleto
⭐ Ranked #37 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
|
Latest page update: 25 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The city of Spoleto is one of the most fascinating locations in Umbria. Situated 63 kilometres south-east of Perugia, it offers a mix of architectural styles and sights from diverse historical eras.
Sitting in a dominant position overlooking the city is the Rocca Albornoziana, a medieval fortress from which you can get the best views over the town. From this vantage point it's possible to pick out the main cluster of sights which are congregated around Piazza del Duomo and include Spoleto Cathedral whose bell tower rises majestically over the beautiful square with its elegant staircase. |
|
What People Ask About Spoleto
What is Spoleto known for?
Is Spoleto worth visiting?
What are the top sights in Spoleto?
How do I get to Spoleto?
What is the Festival dei Due Mondi?
Related links
Discover
Discover Spoleto
History of Spoleto
Originally founded by the Romans in 241 BC as Spoletum, Spoleto's past includes an era when it was the powerful Duchy of Spoleto, dating back to 570 when it was annexed by the Lombards and then two hundred years later by Charlemagne and eventually the Franks.
By the 11th century the Duchy of Spoleto encompassed a huge swathe of territory from the Adriatic Coast to its east, the Romagna to the north, the Papal States including Rome to the west and the principalities of Capua and Benevento to the south.
The city was sacked in 1155 by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa and the Duchy of Spoleto expired in 1213 when it was brought under control by the Papal States.
Originally founded by the Romans in 241 BC as Spoletum, Spoleto's past includes an era when it was the powerful Duchy of Spoleto, dating back to 570 when it was annexed by the Lombards and then two hundred years later by Charlemagne and eventually the Franks.
By the 11th century the Duchy of Spoleto encompassed a huge swathe of territory from the Adriatic Coast to its east, the Romagna to the north, the Papal States including Rome to the west and the principalities of Capua and Benevento to the south.
The city was sacked in 1155 by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa and the Duchy of Spoleto expired in 1213 when it was brought under control by the Papal States.
Spoleto's System of Escalators
Access around the city comes partially via an unusual system of escalators which first transport you up from the car parks at the foot of town, and eventually lead right up to the castle. The escalator system is quite complex with a map required to show you to the most popular locations, but it's a very handy way of getting around this hilly city.
Access around the city comes partially via an unusual system of escalators which first transport you up from the car parks at the foot of town, and eventually lead right up to the castle. The escalator system is quite complex with a map required to show you to the most popular locations, but it's a very handy way of getting around this hilly city.
Sightseeing Spoleto: where to start
A sensible starting point for an itinerary of Spoleto is Piazza della Libertà at the southern end of the centro storico. The main area of the historic centre is in this, the upper area of town which rises to a peak at the Rocca Albornoziana.
Piazza della Libertà provides a fairly modest introduction to Spoleto; it's the first part of the historic centre you reach if you've used one of the car parks at the southern end of town and then taken the escalator complex towards the centre. Although it's the home to the Spoleto tourist office, the main attraction of Piazza della Libertà is what you can see just below it.
A sensible starting point for an itinerary of Spoleto is Piazza della Libertà at the southern end of the centro storico. The main area of the historic centre is in this, the upper area of town which rises to a peak at the Rocca Albornoziana.
Piazza della Libertà provides a fairly modest introduction to Spoleto; it's the first part of the historic centre you reach if you've used one of the car parks at the southern end of town and then taken the escalator complex towards the centre. Although it's the home to the Spoleto tourist office, the main attraction of Piazza della Libertà is what you can see just below it.
Roman Theatre of Spoleto
At the south-western corner of the Piazza you can see the 1st century BC Roman Theatre which wasn't fully-excavated until the late 19th century. For full exploration of the Roman Theatre you need to enter the Museo Archeologico Nazionale which is accessed via a tunnel towards the north-western corner of the square.
The Roman Theatre was the stage for one of the most dramatic and horrific events in the history of Umbria, in 1319 at the time of the War of the Guelphs and Ghibellines. The war was fought over two factions: the Guelphs who supported the Pope, opposing the Ghibellines who were on the side of the Holy Roman Empire. By that time, Spoleto was on the side of the Ghibelline faction and executed 400 Guelph supporters on the steps of the Roman Theatre, slitting their throats before heaping their corpses in a pile and burning them.
At the south-western corner of the Piazza you can see the 1st century BC Roman Theatre which wasn't fully-excavated until the late 19th century. For full exploration of the Roman Theatre you need to enter the Museo Archeologico Nazionale which is accessed via a tunnel towards the north-western corner of the square.
The Roman Theatre was the stage for one of the most dramatic and horrific events in the history of Umbria, in 1319 at the time of the War of the Guelphs and Ghibellines. The war was fought over two factions: the Guelphs who supported the Pope, opposing the Ghibellines who were on the side of the Holy Roman Empire. By that time, Spoleto was on the side of the Ghibelline faction and executed 400 Guelph supporters on the steps of the Roman Theatre, slitting their throats before heaping their corpses in a pile and burning them.
Piazza Pinciani
To the side of the archway that leads down to the Archaeological Museum, the main thoroughfare of Corso Mazzini continues north to the large 17th century church: the Chiesa di San Filippo Neri. At this point, there's a turning on to Piazza Pinciani where an ornamental staircase called the Scalinata di Piazza Pinciani leads up to Via di Fontesecca which in turn leads on to the Via Saffi escalator station. Just before the escalator station, a right hand turn leads on to one of the most important squares in the city.
To the side of the archway that leads down to the Archaeological Museum, the main thoroughfare of Corso Mazzini continues north to the large 17th century church: the Chiesa di San Filippo Neri. At this point, there's a turning on to Piazza Pinciani where an ornamental staircase called the Scalinata di Piazza Pinciani leads up to Via di Fontesecca which in turn leads on to the Via Saffi escalator station. Just before the escalator station, a right hand turn leads on to one of the most important squares in the city.
Around Piazza del Mercato
Piazza del Mercato is the scene of Spoleto's morning market (08:30 - 13:00) and a bustling area where you can buy whatever's on sale at the market that day or stop for a bite to eat or drink at one of the lively establishments that edge the colourful little square. The northern edge of the Piazza is dominated by a monumental fountain with a clock above it: the Fontana di Piazza del Mercato.
Piazza del Mercato is the scene of Spoleto's morning market (08:30 - 13:00) and a bustling area where you can buy whatever's on sale at the market that day or stop for a bite to eat or drink at one of the lively establishments that edge the colourful little square. The northern edge of the Piazza is dominated by a monumental fountain with a clock above it: the Fontana di Piazza del Mercato.
Piazza del Duomo: Spoleto Cathedral and the Basilica di Sant'Eufemia
It's just a short walk from Piazza del Mercato down to the centrepiece area of Spoleto, the Piazza del Duomo. From Via Aurelio Saffi a staircase leads down to Piazza del Duomo but try not to miss the Basilica di Sant'Eufemia situated close to the top.
The twelfth century edifice is a complex including the main church, a monastery and the Museo d'Arte Diocesano gallery among whose exhibits are works by Filippino Lippi. From the Sant'Eufemia complex the staircase continues its graceful descent towards the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, the cathedral which dates back to the twelfth century. Piazza del Duomo is dominated by the cathedral's Romanesque facade and the imposing campanile standing proudly next to it.
It's just a short walk from Piazza del Mercato down to the centrepiece area of Spoleto, the Piazza del Duomo. From Via Aurelio Saffi a staircase leads down to Piazza del Duomo but try not to miss the Basilica di Sant'Eufemia situated close to the top.
The twelfth century edifice is a complex including the main church, a monastery and the Museo d'Arte Diocesano gallery among whose exhibits are works by Filippino Lippi. From the Sant'Eufemia complex the staircase continues its graceful descent towards the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, the cathedral which dates back to the twelfth century. Piazza del Duomo is dominated by the cathedral's Romanesque facade and the imposing campanile standing proudly next to it.
Rocca Albornoziana
While Piazza del Duomo may be the centrepiece of Spoleto, the city's crowning glory is the Rocca Albornoziana which stands imperiously looking down on everything else. The fortress takes its name from the same Cardinal Albornoz who commissioned the similarly-named castle in the hill town of Orvieto, further to the west of Spoleto.
Originally serving both to protect the city but also to house local dignitaries, the Rocca Albornoziana later became a prison and was still being used as such until 1982. Its current function is that of a museum and gallery; apart from the exhibits on display it's one of the best places from which to look down on to the city or to pick out sights such as the Ponte delle Torri, a 14th century archway bridge which spans the Tessino Gorge some 80 metres below.
While Piazza del Duomo may be the centrepiece of Spoleto, the city's crowning glory is the Rocca Albornoziana which stands imperiously looking down on everything else. The fortress takes its name from the same Cardinal Albornoz who commissioned the similarly-named castle in the hill town of Orvieto, further to the west of Spoleto.
Originally serving both to protect the city but also to house local dignitaries, the Rocca Albornoziana later became a prison and was still being used as such until 1982. Its current function is that of a museum and gallery; apart from the exhibits on display it's one of the best places from which to look down on to the city or to pick out sights such as the Ponte delle Torri, a 14th century archway bridge which spans the Tessino Gorge some 80 metres below.
Spoleto's Lower Town to the north of Piazza del Duomo
Spoleto also appears in UNESCO's World Heritage List under the heading: Longobards in Italy. Places of the Power (568-774 A.D.), a series of seven building groups including Spoleto's Basilica di San Salvatore which lies at the foot of the city.
To the north of the Cathedral is Spoleto's lower town around Piazza Garibaldi. This is generally-speaking the newer area of the city which does't quite enjoy the array of sights as the upper town, but that said, this is the site of a Roman Amphitheatre (not to be confused with the Roman Theatre described above). From Piazza Garibaldi it's a 7 minute walk (500 metres) to the UNESCO-listed Basilica di San Salvatore which dates back to the 4th or 5th century AD, one of the oldest churches in Italy.
Spoleto also appears in UNESCO's World Heritage List under the heading: Longobards in Italy. Places of the Power (568-774 A.D.), a series of seven building groups including Spoleto's Basilica di San Salvatore which lies at the foot of the city.
To the north of the Cathedral is Spoleto's lower town around Piazza Garibaldi. This is generally-speaking the newer area of the city which does't quite enjoy the array of sights as the upper town, but that said, this is the site of a Roman Amphitheatre (not to be confused with the Roman Theatre described above). From Piazza Garibaldi it's a 7 minute walk (500 metres) to the UNESCO-listed Basilica di San Salvatore which dates back to the 4th or 5th century AD, one of the oldest churches in Italy.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Spoleto
- Duomo di Spoleto is the cathedral of the town, located in Piazza Duomo in the historic centre. Built on the site of an earlier church, it dates to the 12th century and showcases Romanesque and later Baroque elements. The façade features a rose window and a marble portal, while the interior houses frescoes by Filippo Lippi and Pinturicchio. It remains an active place of worship and hosts liturgical concerts during the Festival dei Due Mondi.
- Ponte delle Torri is a striking 13th-century aqueduct and bridge spanning a deep valley, linking the town to Monteluco. Constructed of local stone, it measures approximately 230 metres in length and 80 metres in height, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The structure is a frequent subject for photographers and can be crossed on foot. Conservation work ensures its stability, making it accessible to visitors year-round.
- Rocca Albornoziana is a medieval fortress located on the highest point of town, originally built by Cardinal Albornoz in the 14th century. The complex includes ramparts, towers and a central courtyard that houses the Museo Nazionale del Ducato di Spoleto. From the ramparts, there are sweeping views over Spoleto, the valley and distant Apennine peaks. Guided tours and temporary exhibitions are held within the fortress walls.
- Teatro Romano is an ancient Roman theatre dating to the 1st century BC, partially restored to accommodate performances. Located at the foot of the Rocca hill, it consists of an exedra, seating tiers and an orchestra space. The theatre continues to host events during the summer festival and offers insight into Roman urban life. Informational panels explain its historical significance and the restoration process.
- Chiesa di San Pietro in Valle is a hilltop abbey located north of Spoleto, founded in the 6th century and reconstructed in the 11th century. The church features a crypt adorned with Byzantine frescoes and a simple Romanesque façade. It is set in a wooded valley and accessible by a walking path that begins near the town centre. The peaceful setting and historical art make it a worthwhile excursion for visitors.
Spoleto Tours and Activities
Comune di Spoleto
|
Province: Perugia
Region: Umbria Population: 36,186 (in 2024 - source) Total size: 349 km² Elevation: 396 metres Highlights: Rocca Albornoziana, Roman Theatre, Cathedral Close by: Vallo di Nera, Campello sul Clitunno, Trevi, Acquasparta |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Longobards in Italy: Places of the Power (568-774 A.D.)
Site: The Basilica of San Salvatore
Year: 2011
Longobards in Italy: Places of the Power (568-774 A.D.)
Site: The Basilica of San Salvatore
Year: 2011
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Spoleto
- Hotel Clitunno Located in the heart of Spoleto, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding hills, a restaurant serving traditional Umbrian cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, excellent service, and the proximity to Spoleto’s main attractions, including the Spoleto Cathedral and the Ponte delle Torri. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Finestra sul Subasio Set just outside the historic centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the peaceful setting, and the easy access to Spoleto’s historical sites and nearby nature trails. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel San Luca Situated near the town centre, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with scenic views of the surrounding countryside, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving local dishes. Guests enjoy the friendly service, relaxing atmosphere, and the short walk to Spoleto’s cultural sites, including the Roman Theatre and the Rocca Albornoziana. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo La Panoramica Located just outside Spoleto, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with panoramic views of the Umbrian hills, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests appreciate the peaceful rural setting, the authentic Umbrian experience, and the short drive to Spoleto’s attractions and nearby nature reserves. €€ (mid-range)
- Palazzo Leti Residenza d'Epoca Set in a historic building near Spoleto’s town centre, this luxury accommodation offers elegant rooms with views of the town and surrounding hills, a relaxing garden, and personalized service. Guests enjoy the luxurious atmosphere, exceptional service, and the short walk to Spoleto’s cultural landmarks, including the Spoleto Cathedral and the Teatro Romano. €€€ (high-end)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Spoleto
- Ristorante Apollinaire: Located in the historic centre of Spoleto, Ristorante Apollinaire offers a refined dining experience with a focus on traditional Umbrian cuisine. Known for its fresh pasta, such as pappardelle with wild boar ragu, and its selection of local meats and cheeses, the restaurant provides an authentic taste of the region. The elegant setting and excellent service make it a great choice for a special meal. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria del Matto: A cosy, family-run osteria, Osteria del Matto offers a charming and welcoming atmosphere with a menu featuring classic Umbrian dishes. The menu includes specialties like gnocchi with truffle, roasted meats, and fresh seasonal vegetables. The friendly service and rustic decor make it a perfect place for a casual, delicious meal in Spoleto. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Il Tempio del Gusto: Located near the city centre, Ristorante Il Tempio del Gusto combines traditional Italian cuisine with creative contemporary touches. The menu features dishes like risotto with saffron, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables, with an emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The sophisticated setting and attentive service create a refined dining experience. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria La Torretta: A traditional trattoria in the heart of Spoleto, Trattoria La Torretta offers authentic Umbrian flavours in a casual, rustic setting. Known for its hearty pasta dishes, such as tortelli with ricotta and spinach, and its classic meat options, such as lamb and pork, it’s an excellent choice for a satisfying, homey meal. The friendly staff and welcoming environment add to its appeal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante La Fattoria: For an upscale dining experience, Ristorante La Fattoria offers fine Italian and Umbrian cuisine in an elegant setting. The menu includes dishes like risotto with truffle, grilled meats, and fresh seafood, all made with local, seasonal ingredients. The stylish interior, combined with impeccable service, makes it an ideal spot for a memorable meal or special occasion. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)
Photo Gallery
Spoleto Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Spoleto
With a car there are endless possibilities for places to see close to Spoleto: just off the main road heading north towards Perugia is the hill town of Trevi, while north-east of Trevi is the pretty village of Rasiglia up in the Umbrian hills. Directly east of Spoleto and towards the Monti Sibillini National Park is the town of Cascia with its colourful and unusually-modern Basilica di Santa Rita da Cascia, while that same eastbound trajectory which eventually bring you to the Piano Grande and the polychromatic spectacular on display at Castelluccio.
- Assisi (approx. 40 km north of Spoleto): A UNESCO World Heritage site, Assisi is renowned as the birthplace of St. Francis and is a major pilgrimage destination. The town features the beautiful Basilica di San Francesco, with its famous frescoes by Giotto, and the Church of Santa Chiara. Visitors can also explore the medieval streets, enjoy panoramic views, and visit the Roman Temple of Minerva in the town’s central square.
- Terni (approx. 35 km southeast of Spoleto): Known as the "City of Lovers" due to its association with St. Valentine, Terni offers several historical and natural attractions. Key sites include the Cathedral of San Valentino, the Marmore Waterfalls, one of the tallest in Europe, and the peaceful surroundings of Lake Piediluco, which provides opportunities for boat trips and outdoor activities.
- Narni (approx. 30 km southeast of Spoleto): A charming medieval town, Narni is known for its well-preserved historic centre, which includes the impressive Narni Underground, where visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins. The town also offers the beautiful Church of San Francesco and scenic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a peaceful spot for history and nature lovers.
- Bevagna (approx. 45 km north of Spoleto): A small, well-preserved medieval town, Bevagna offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its Roman ruins, such as the Roman theatre, and medieval buildings. The town is famous for its historic festivals, including the Mercato delle Gaite, a medieval reenactment, and its picturesque main square, Piazza Silvestri, lined with medieval structures and cafes.
- Trevi (approx. 35 km north of Spoleto): A hilltop town with breathtaking views of the surrounding Umbrian countryside, Trevi is known for its medieval architecture, including the Church of San Francesco and the ancient Roman bridge. The town is also famous for its olive oil production, and visitors can explore the Olive Oil Museum and taste local varieties of this Umbrian delicacy.
Umbria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
1. Assisi
2. Spoleto
3. Gubbio
4. Perugia
5. Orvieto
6. Lake Trasimeno
7. Castelluccio
8. Marmore Waterfalls
9. Trevi
10. Todi
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Umbria
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Spoleto
It's within the lower area of town that Spoleto's train station is situated; albeit a 13 minute walk from Piazza Garibaldi (1 km). Trains run north from Spoleto to Perugia with a journey time of an hour, with stops along the way at the pretty hill town of Spello (24 minutes) and one of Umbria's foremost attractions: Assisi (33 minutes).
Southbound trains reach Rome in just under an hour and a half, stopping at another of Umbria's major towns, Terni (27 minutes) and the hill town of Orte in Lazio (53 minutes) first.
Southbound trains reach Rome in just under an hour and a half, stopping at another of Umbria's major towns, Terni (27 minutes) and the hill town of Orte in Lazio (53 minutes) first.
