Family Adventure in Orvieto, Italy

Echoes of the Etruscans and the Dominicans

Today was a day of stepping back in time, exploring the ancient roots of Orvieto and reflecting on its medieval religious heritage. It’s amazing how much history is layered within this one city. Kenji was especially excited about the prospect of exploring ancient tombs, and Eleanor was keen to learn more about the religious history of the area. As for me, I was eager to capture it all through my lens and share our discoveries.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Antica Bottega al Duomo. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. I opted for a simple cornetto and cappuccino, while Eleanor chose a selection of local cheeses and cured meats. Kenji, of course, wanted his usual chocolate croissant. The warm, family-style atmosphere made it a perfect start to our day.

Stepping into the Past at the Etruscan Necropolis

Our first stop was the Necropoli Etrusca di Crocifisso del Tufo. This Etruscan necropolis, dating back to the 6th century BC, is a remarkable site located just below Orvieto’s tufa cliff. As we walked through the grid-like arrangement of tombs, I was struck by the uniformity and simplicity of the structures. Each tomb, constructed from tuff blocks, bore the name of an Etruscan family, a poignant reminder of the lives once lived here.


Uncover the secrets of the Etruscans at the Necropoli etrusca di Crocifisso del Tufo in Orvieto, where ancient history comes to life through stunning tombs and artifacts.
Kenji was fascinated by the tombs, running from one to the next, imagining the people who were buried there. Eleanor appreciated the historical significance, noting how the necropolis provides valuable insights into Etruscan culture and society. The cool temperature inside the tombs, a welcome respite from the August heat, created an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. I took numerous photos, trying to capture the essence of this ancient burial ground, the way the light filtered through the entrances, illuminating the moss and ferns that have taken root within these dark chambers.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

As we wandered through the necropolis, I couldn't help but reflect on the enduring legacy of the Etruscans. Their civilization, which flourished in this region long before the Romans, left an indelible mark on the landscape and culture of Italy. It’s humbling to walk in their footsteps, to see the places where they lived, worshipped, and were laid to rest. It made me think of my own ancestors in Matsumoto, and the traditions they passed down through generations. Perhaps one day, Kenji will visit their graves and feel a similar connection to his own heritage.

A Moment of Reflection at the Church of Saint Dominic

Next on our itinerary was the Church of Saint Dominic. This church has a unique history. Originally one of the first churches of the Dominican Order, founded in 1233, much of the original structure was demolished in 1932 to make way for a women's academy of physical education. What remains today is the apse and transept, a testament to the passage of time and the changing priorities of society.


Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of the Church of Saint Dominic in Orvieto, a must-visit Catholic church rich in history.
Inside, we found a peaceful sanctuary. The church is known for housing the desk used by St. Thomas Aquinas during his time teaching in Orvieto in the 13th century. Eleanor, a teacher herself, was particularly moved by this artifact, imagining the great philosopher imparting his wisdom from that very spot. We also admired the Monument to Cardinal De Braye, sculpted by Arnolfo di Cambio around 1282, a beautiful example of Gothic art.

The Church of Saint Dominic offered a moment of quiet reflection amidst our busy day. It was a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the contributions of the Dominican Order to the intellectual and spiritual life of Orvieto. I lit a candle for my grandmother, who always held her faith close to her heart. Kenji, ever curious, peppered us with questions about saints and miracles, which led to a lively discussion about the role of religion in our lives.

Lunch and Leather: A Taste of Orvieto

By lunchtime, we were ready for a hearty meal. We headed to Tipica Trattoria Etrusca, a restaurant known for its classic Umbro-Tuscan cuisine. The trattoria's cozy atmosphere and the enticing aromas wafting from the kitchen immediately made us feel at home. I decided to try the coniglio all'Etrusca (rabbit in a green sauce of herbs and spices), while Eleanor opted for the homemade pasta with truffle sauce. Kenji, predictably, chose the spaghetti al pomodoro. Each dish was a celebration of local flavors and traditional recipes.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Tipica Trattoria Etrusca in Orvieto, where tradition meets culinary excellence.
After lunch, while Kenji was busy playing a game on Eleanor's phone, I took the opportunity to do a little shopping. I ventured into Polifemo Cuoio, a leather goods shop known for its exquisite handcrafted items. The shop was filled with the rich scent of leather, and I was immediately drawn to the beautiful bags, belts, and wallets on display. I ended up purchasing a small leather journal for myself, thinking it would be perfect for jotting down notes and sketches during our travels. I also picked up a colorful leather bracelet for Eleanor, a small token of my appreciation for her unwavering support and companionship.


Explore Polifemo Cuoio in Orvieto for exquisite handcrafted leather goods that celebrate Italian craftsmanship and tradition.

A Culinary Conclusion

As evening approached, we made our way to Ristorante Maurizio for dinner. This restaurant, located near the Duomo, is renowned for its excellent service and traditional Umbrian cuisine with a modern twist. The atmosphere was elegant and inviting, and we were warmly greeted by the staff. I started with the Umbrichelle pasta with black truffle, mushroom, and guanciale bacon, while Eleanor chose the lasagna. For the main course, I indulged in the lamb, while Eleanor savored the duck. Kenji, of course, opted for a simple pasta dish.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Maurizio in Orvieto – where every meal is a celebration of tradition.
The meal was a culinary delight, a perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and discovery. The flavors were rich and complex, the presentation impeccable, and the service attentive. As we savored each bite, we reflected on the day’s adventures, sharing our favorite moments and discussing what tomorrow might bring. I raised a glass of local wine, toasting to family, to travel, and to the joy of experiencing new cultures.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Centro storico di Bomarzo and Villa Farnese [sic]. I’ve heard that the gardens of Bomarzo are unlike anything else in Italy, and I’m eager to explore their whimsical sculptures and hidden pathways. Eleanor is excited to see Villa Farnese, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. And I'm sure Kenji will enjoy running around the gardens and discovering new hiding spots. Before heading back to the hotel, we will stop by Enoteca al Duomo to taste some local wines [sic].

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Travel is not just about seeing new places; it’s about connecting with different cultures, learning about history, and creating lasting memories with the people you love. And as we continue our journey through Italy, I look forward to sharing many more stories and discoveries with you.

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” – Aldous Huxley