Exploring the Enchanting Medieval Town of Orvieto with My Husband

Day 6: Discovering Orvieto's Quiet Charms

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a chance to soak in the quieter corners of Orvieto after the grandeur of the Duomo and the bustling main streets. Hans and I decided to take it slow, embracing the simple pleasures of this medieval town. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the unexpected discoveries and the moments of quiet reflection.

Our morning began with breakfast at Caffè Clandestino. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of Italian pastries drew us in. We secured a table outside, perfect for people-watching along Corso Cavour. I ordered a cappuccino and a *cornetto* (an Italian croissant), while Hans opted for an espresso and a slice of *torta della nonna*. It was the perfect way to start the day, fueling us for our explorations.

Giardini Comunali: A Peaceful Retreat

After breakfast, we strolled towards the Giardini Comunali, a public garden offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The gardens are located near Piazza Cahen, within the walls of the medieval Fortezza Albornoz. The walk itself was lovely, passing through charming streets lined with shops and cafes. As we entered the gardens, we were greeted by lush greenery and a sense of tranquility.


Discover tranquility and breathtaking views at Giardini Comunali Di Orvieto—a beautiful garden oasis in the heart of Italy's charming town of Orvieto.

The Giardini Comunali are meticulously maintained, with a variety of local and exotic plants creating a vibrant tapestry of colors. We wandered along the winding pathways, discovering charming nooks perfect for relaxation. The elevated position of the gardens provided stunning vistas of the Paglia River valley. I took several photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape. It was a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the town, a place to simply be and enjoy the moment. I even spotted a few birds flitting about, their melodic calls adding to the serene atmosphere. Hans and I sat on a bench, enjoying the view and each other's company. It reminded me of the parks back home in Leipzig, though none can quite compare to the Italian scenery.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Vicolo degli Abbracci: A Kissing Alley

Next on our list was the Vicolo degli Abbracci, or Alley of Kisses, a narrow street known for its romantic ambiance. Finding it was a bit of an adventure, as it's tucked away in a less-traveled part of Orvieto. As we walked along the Vicolo degli Abbracci, I couldn't help but feel a sense of history and charm. The alley is named after Gualverio Michelangeli, a prominent wood carver from the region, and you can still admire his masterpieces in the area. The craftsmanship and long tradition of wood carving in Umbrian cities is mesmerizing.


Discover the enchanting Vicolo degli Abbracci in Orvieto, a charming tourist attraction perfect for couples and travelers seeking beauty and tranquility.

Church of Saint Dominic: A Historical Gem

Our afternoon continued with a visit to the Church of Saint Dominic. This church, one of the first of the Dominican Order, has a rich history dating back to 1233. The Dominicans were granted an older church in Orvieto dedicated to Our Lady of Peace (Santa Maria della Pace). In 1235, this church was demolished and a new church dedicated to Saint Dominicus was built on the same spot.


Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of the Church of Saint Dominic in Orvieto, a must-visit Catholic church rich in history.

Unfortunately, much of the original church was demolished in 1932 to make way for a girls' school for physical exercise. What remains today are only the apse and the transept. Despite this, the church is still worth a visit, housing the desk used by St. Thomas Aquinas during his time in Orvieto. The Monument to Cardinal De Braye, sculpted by Arnolfo di Cambio around 1282, is another notable feature.

The church has served various roles throughout the centuries, evolving alongside Orvieto's cultural landscape. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by an air of tranquility, exploring its interior, which features altars and religious artifacts.

Lunch at Trattoria dell'Orso: A Taste of Umbria

By now, our stomachs were rumbling, so we made our way to Trattoria dell'Orso for lunch. Tucked away on Via della Misericordia, this *trattoria* is known for its authentic Umbrian cuisine. We started with *antipasti*: fried pork belly and a selection of sliced meats. For our main courses, Hans ordered the *umbrichelli* with wild boar ragout and truffles, while I opted for the truffle pasta. Both dishes were delicious, showcasing the flavors of the region. We ended the meal with *pistacchio semifreddo* and *torta di mele*, paired with strong espresso.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria dell' Orso in Orvieto – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Enoteca al Duomo: An Evening Toast

As the day drew to a close, we decided to stop by Enoteca al Duomo for a drink. This *enoteca* is located near the Duomo, offering a wide selection of local wines. We ordered a bottle of Orvieto Classico, a crisp white wine that perfectly complemented the warm evening. Sipping our wine, we reflected on the day's adventures. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the enchanting Enoteca al Duomo in Orvieto, where exquisite wines and delightful dishes meet in a picturesque setting.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Ruins of Etrurian Temple of Belvedere, Palazzo Carvajal, and Museo dei Portici. I’m particularly excited about the museum, as I always enjoy delving into local history. We'll also have breakfast at Al pozzo etrusco di Fabrizio Grilli, lunch at Vis à Vis, and dinner at Ristorante L'antica Rupe. And, of course, a little shopping at Patris Orvieto is in order!

Orvieto continues to surprise and delight me. It's a town that rewards those who take the time to wander and discover its hidden corners. I am so grateful to be able to experience this with Hans.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I feel a sense of contentment. Orvieto has a way of slowing you down, of reminding you to appreciate the simple things in life. And that, I think, is a lesson worth learning.

Until tomorrow,
Tetiana