Family Adventure in Orvieto, Italy

A Journey Through Time

As our family adventure in Orvieto draws to a close, I wanted to make the most of our last day in Italy. Today was all about soaking in the medieval atmosphere of a nearby city, exploring ancient fortresses, and savoring the last tastes of Italian cuisine before we head back to Bristol. It's hard to believe our eleven days here are already coming to an end; it feels like just yesterday we were arriving in Rome, eager to begin our explorations.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Trattoria la Grotta. Eleanor, Kenji, and I enjoyed the cozy atmosphere while savoring the traditional flavors of Umbria. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day trip to Viterbo. The quality of the food was excellent, and the service was warm and attentive, which made the experience even more memorable. I had some delicious ravioli. Kenji enjoyed his spaghetti. Eleanor opted for the lamb.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria la Grotta in Orvieto – where every meal is a celebration of Italy's culinary heritage.
After breakfast, we hopped on a train to Viterbo, a city known for its remarkably well-preserved medieval center. The train journey itself was smooth and comfortable, giving us a chance to reflect on our time in Orvieto and anticipate the adventures that awaited us in Viterbo. As we pulled into the station, the city greeted us with its ancient walls and towers, promising a step back in time.

To walk through the streets of Viterbo is to walk through the pages of history, each stone whispering tales of popes, emperors, and medieval life.

Our first stop was the Centro storico medievale. Walking through the narrow streets, I felt as though we had been transported back to the Middle Ages. The architecture was stunning, with well-preserved buildings and charming piazzas at every turn. We wandered through Piazza San Pellegrino, a picturesque square that felt untouched by time. The tiny streets and low arches created an intimate atmosphere, and we enjoyed getting lost in the maze-like layout of the old town.


Explore the enchanting medieval heart of Viterbo, where history, architecture, and local culture come together to create an unforgettable Italian experience.
We then visited the Palazzo dei Papi, a significant historical site in Viterbo. This Gothic palace was once the papal residence in the 13th century, offering refuge to popes fleeing hostilities in Rome. The palace was also used by the College of Cardinals to select new popes. The most historic environment is the Hall of the Conclave, where the longest election of a pope in history was carried out. The elections lasted a total of 1,006 days between 1268 and 1271. I found myself imagining the intense debates and political maneuvering that must have taken place within those walls. Eleanor, always the history enthusiast, shared fascinating stories about the popes who had resided here. Kenji, surprisingly, was captivated by the tales of locked cardinals and secret passages.

After exploring the Centro storico, we drove to Montefiascone to visit the Rocca dei Papi. Perched on the highest point of the city, the fortress offered breathtaking views of Lake Bolsena and the surrounding areas. The history of the Rocca dei Papi is tied to the popes who, over the centuries, have influenced Montefiascone. Built before 1200, Pope Innocent III consolidated it. In the early 16th century, the Borgia family intervened to modernize and make it a welcoming residence. Originally constructed as a stronghold against barbarian invasions, the Rocca became a refuge for many popes who, fleeing Rome, found asylum within its walls.


Explore Rocca dei Papi: A historical fortress in Montefiascone offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Italy's rich past.
Kenji was particularly fascinated by the towers and ramparts, imagining himself as a knight defending the fortress. The panoramic view from the top was truly spectacular, encompassing Montefiascone and Lake Bolsena. Eleanor and I took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape. We learned that the Rocca dei Papi is now an exhibition and cultural space that hosts events and exhibitions celebrating the region's history and art. It was inspiring to see how this ancient structure continues to play a role in the cultural life of the community.

Before heading back to Orvieto, we stopped at Marino Moretti Studio d’Arte. I had read about this ceramics studio and was eager to see Marino Moretti's work in person. Located near the Duomo, the studio showcased exquisite pieces that reflected Moretti’s exceptional artistry. Marino Moretti creates traditional majolica ceramics with a contemporary flair while staying true to Italy's ancient traditions and techniques. The designs were beautiful, and I was particularly drawn to those influenced by the art scenes on the walls of the Duomo.


Explore the vibrant Marino Moretti Studio d’Arte in Orvieto, a unique blend of art and shopping that celebrates Italian creativity and craftsmanship.
I purchased a small ceramic plate as a memento of our trip. It was a beautiful reminder of the artistry and craftsmanship we had encountered throughout our journey. Kenji, inspired by Moretti's work, declared that he wanted to take up pottery when we returned to Bristol.

For lunch, we decided to try La Pergola Orvieto, drawn in by its reputation for traditional Umbrian cuisine and its lovely patio. The restaurant was charming, and the staff was incredibly welcoming. We started with some local appetizers, followed by homemade pasta dishes that were simply divine. I savored every bite, knowing that this was one of our last opportunities to enjoy authentic Italian flavors. Eleanor and Kenji were equally delighted with their meals, and we all agreed that La Pergola was a perfect choice.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Pergola Orvieto - where tradition meets taste in a charming setting.
In the evening, we had our farewell dinner at I Sette Consoli. This restaurant had been recommended to us for its fine dining experience and its beautiful garden setting. The ambiance was indeed enchanting, with the garden providing a tranquil and romantic atmosphere. We opted for the tasting menu, which featured a series of exquisite dishes that showcased the best of Italian cuisine. The lamb chops were a standout, perfectly cooked and full of flavor. The wine pairings were also excellent, enhancing the flavors of each course.


Discover I Sette Consoli: A culinary treasure in Orvieto offering exquisite Italian dishes and an unforgettable dining experience.
Anna Rita Simoncini, the female chef and a member of the Jeunes Restaurateurs D'Europe, is a chef whom I had read much about. Luckily, Chef Simoncini was still in her kitchen and between her incredible talent and the full attention of the maitre d', we had a magnificent lunch. For dessert, the tiramisu was the perfect ending to our culinary journey. The service was impeccable, and the staff made us feel truly special. It was a memorable evening, and a fitting way to celebrate the end of our family adventure in Orvieto.

As we packed our bags, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. Orvieto had captured our hearts with its beauty, history, and warmth. We had explored its ancient streets, marveled at its stunning cathedral, and savored its delicious cuisine. We had also ventured out to discover the surrounding region, from the underground caves to the medieval charm of Viterbo.

Our trip to Orvieto has been more than just a vacation; it has been a journey of discovery, connection, and shared experiences. As we prepare to return to Bristol, I know that we will carry these memories with us for a lifetime. While there are no specific plans for tomorrow, as it marks the end of our trip, I am certain that we will spend the day reflecting on our wonderful experiences in Italy. Until next time, arrivederci!