Family Adventure in Orvieto, Italy

Day 4: Delving Deeper into Orvieto's Charms

Today was all about exploring the layers of Orvieto, both above and below ground. It's amazing how much history is packed into this relatively small city. Kenji was especially excited about the underground caves, and Eleanor was looking forward to seeing the Palazzo dei Priori. As for me, I was eager to soak in more of the local culture and, of course, sample some more of the delicious Umbrian cuisine.

Our first stop was the Pozzo della Cava. Descending into the earth, I couldn't help but think about the centuries of history hidden beneath our feet. The well itself is an incredible feat of engineering, a testament to the ingenuity of the Etruscans and Romans who first inhabited this area. Kenji was fascinated by the ancient pottery and tools on display, imagining the people who used them so long ago. The caves were cool and damp, a welcome respite from the August heat. It was a self-guided tour, which allowed us to explore at our own pace and really take in the atmosphere.


Explore the ancient depths of Pozzo della Cava in Orvieto, where history, archaeology, and breathtaking underground landscapes await.

Beneath the surface of Orvieto lies a hidden world, a testament to the enduring spirit and ingenuity of its people.

Emerging from the depths of Pozzo della Cava, we made our way to the Palazzo dei Priori. This medieval palace stands as a symbol of Orvieto's power and prestige during the Middle Ages. Built in the 13th century, it served as the seat of the city's governing priors. The architecture is impressive, with its sturdy stone walls and arched windows. Inside, we explored the beautifully decorated halls and chambers, imagining the bustling activity that once filled these rooms. Eleanor was particularly impressed by the frescoes depicting historical events and allegorical scenes. It was easy to picture the priors convening here to make decisions that shaped the destiny of Orvieto.


Discover the beauty and history of Palazzo dei Priori, Viterbo's iconic art museum and cultural landmark.

After a morning of exploration, our stomachs were starting to rumble. It was time for lunch at Ristorante L'antica Rupe. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the staff were friendly and attentive. We started with some local Umbrian specialties, including cured meats and cheeses. For my main course, I had the truffle pasta, which was rich and flavorful. Eleanor opted for the grilled vegetables, which were fresh and perfectly cooked. Kenji, of course, went for the pizza, which he devoured in minutes. It was a satisfying meal that gave us a taste of the region's culinary heritage.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante L'antica Rupe in Orvieto—where every pizza tells a story.

With our bellies full, we continued our exploration of Orvieto. We strolled through the charming streets, admiring the medieval architecture and soaking in the atmosphere. The city was bustling with activity, tourists and locals alike enjoying the warm August weather. We stopped at a few shops, picking up souvenirs for friends and family back in Bristol. Kenji was especially excited about a small wooden toy he found, a replica of a medieval knight.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break at Trattoria Vinosus for a light lunch. Located near the Duomo, this restaurant offers a delightful setting to relax and enjoy some local wine. We ordered a bottle of Orvieto Classico, the region's famous white wine. It was crisp and refreshing, the perfect accompaniment to the stunning views of the cathedral. We also sampled some of their delicious appetizers, including bruschetta and olives. It was a perfect way to unwind and recharge before our final activity of the day.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Vinosus in Orvieto - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

For dinner, we had reservations at Ristorante Pellegrini. This family-run restaurant is known for its traditional Umbrian cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is located in a historic building near the cathedral, with a spacious dining room and a lovely terrace overlooking the city. We started with the tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms, which was absolutely divine. For my main course, I had the roasted lamb with potatoes, which was cooked to perfection. Eleanor opted for the grilled beef steak with rosemary, which was tender and flavorful. Kenji enjoyed his pasta. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pellegrini in Orvieto – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

After dinner, we decided to check out Bacaro Orvieto, a local wine bar. Lorenzo, the owner, is known for his expertise and knowledge of local and unique wines found throughout Italy. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and we enjoyed sampling some of the local wines. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Orvieto's hidden depths and historic heights. I decided to go with a glass of Malvasia-Chardonnay blend, a popular wine in Central Italy.


Discover Bacaro Orvieto: A charming wine bar in the heart of Italy, offering exquisite local wines and traditional Italian small plates.

Tonight, as I reflect on our adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a rich and vibrant culture. Orvieto has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. We plan to visit the Palazzo Coelli and the Etruscan Museum Claudio Faina. Perhaps we'll also find some time to do some shopping at Il Mago di Oz. Until then, goodnight from Orvieto.

Here's a little something I learned today: Orvieto is famous for its white wine, Orvieto Classico DOC, which is made from local grapes such as Grechetto and Trebbiano.

One thing I forgot to pack for this trip was my sunglasses. I really need to remember these for future trips.