Umbria is known for its verdant mountains and hills, and some of its special places are best known for their colorful flowers and ancient history. Spello, an ancient Roman colony dating back to the 1st century B.C., is a beautiful hilltop town located on the southern side of Mount Subasio. Known for its flower-filled balconies and porches, it is located just 15 minutes south of Assisi and worth a visit or perhaps an extended stay.
Medieval Charm with Ancient Roots
Although its foundations are ancient Roman, the current town is medieval, complete with fortified walls characteristic of hilltop towns during the Middle Ages. While Umbria's northern Tuscan neighbor boasts some of the most famous Renaissance art, Umbria can claim some impressive Renaissance works of its own.
Spello's Santa Maria Maggiore Church has the famous frescoes of the renowned Pinturicchio. His work can also be viewed at the Church of Sant'Andrea located just a few minutes from Santa Maria Maggiore.
Roman Archaeology
If you are interested in Spello's ancient past, pay a visit to the Villa of the Mosaics located at the bottom of the old town. Discovered in 2005, the modern complex built to protect the excavation site is a worthy stop and highlights Spello's importance in Roman archaeology.
In fact, it was reported in January 2024 that a large Roman temple complex had been discovered underneath a Spello parking lot. This small Umbrian town holds a wealth of Roman archaeology waiting to be explored.
Le Infiorate di Spello
If you are lucky enough to be in Spello in June, you may be able to experience Le Infiorate di Spello, the famous flower festival. I was fortunate enough to be staying in Spello during the Flower Festival and it was absolutely stunning.
Building up to the weekend, locals meticulously place flower petals on the ground, creating intricately designed flower carpets. The carpets cover the cobblestoned streets and continue for blocks throughout the town. Visitors come from near and far to witness the flower carpets, so expect huge crowds and traffic on the flower festival days.
Tip: If you decide to visit during Le Infiorate di Spello, make sure you book a local restaurant ahead of time. We had to leave Spello to eat lunch and dinner because we had not made reservations.
Where to Stay
Accommodations in Spello are scarce. You will find ample apartment and villa rentals in and around Spello, but the cities of Assisi and Spoleto offer more diverse options of hotels and bed and breakfasts. Luxury villa rentals are available through local hosts who can arrange experiences, private chefs, and housekeeping services.
Where to Eat
If food is more your currency than art, Spello has delicious restaurants and wine bars. My personal favorite is Enoteca Properzio located in Piazza Giacomo Matteotti. The menu is wonderful and features local specialties like Tagliatelle al Tartufo, preferably washed down with a full-bodied Sagrantino red.
Tip: Umbria is home to the black truffle, so it is often used in multiple dishes and is inexpensive compared to other regions of Italy.
Do not let Assisi be your one and only Umbrian destination. Take a short trip to its southern smaller neighbor, Spello, and bask in the beauty and history of one of Italy's most beautiful and historical hilltop towns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Spello located?
Spello is a hilltop town in Umbria, located on the southern side of Mount Subasio. It is just 15 minutes south of Assisi and makes an easy day trip or a peaceful base for exploring the region.
What is Le Infiorate di Spello?
Le Infiorate di Spello is an annual flower festival held in June where locals create elaborate flower petal carpets that cover the cobblestone streets. It is a spectacular event that draws visitors from across Italy and beyond.
What should I see in Spello?
Must-see attractions include the Pinturicchio frescoes at Santa Maria Maggiore Church, the Villa of the Mosaics with its Roman archaeological remains, and the medieval fortified walls. The flower-filled balconies throughout the town are also a highlight.
Is Spello worth visiting?
Absolutely. Spello offers a quieter alternative to nearby Assisi with equally impressive history, beautiful Renaissance art, Roman archaeology, and excellent Umbrian cuisine featuring local truffles and Sagrantino wine.
Where should I stay when visiting Spello?
Accommodations within Spello are limited, mostly villa and apartment rentals. For more hotel options, consider staying in nearby Assisi or Spoleto and visiting Spello as a day trip.
References
- Historical records on Spello as a Roman colony dating to the 1st century BCE.
- Villa of the Mosaics archaeological site information discovered in 2005.
- News reports from January 2024 on the discovery of a Roman temple complex beneath Spello.
- Le Infiorate di Spello festival documentation and schedule information.
- Pinturicchio fresco documentation at Santa Maria Maggiore and Sant'Andrea churches.
