Città di Castello is a beautiful historical city in scenic northern Umbria, bordering with Tuscany.
Surrounded by arable farmland, the city limits are marked by its great Renaissance walls that encircle ancient cobblestoned streets, home to centuries-old grand palaces, including the 16th century Palazzo Bufalini, and the Palazzo Albizzini, as well as a town hall that dates back to the 1300s.
While the bygone era shines out in the architecture, Città di Castello is sophisticated and urban, with inviting cafes that spill out on bustling streets and are the perfect spot for long summer evenings in Umbria.
Known as the city of museums, Città di Castello proudly celebrates its most famous resident, the Italian abstract artist and sculptor Alberrto Burri, who was born here in 1915. Art lovers will be paradise, as your holiday in Città di Castello boasts a treasure chest of Burri’s pre-Pot Art era works, as well as a historic collection from other great painters.
Explore north Umbria further, with day trips from Città di Castello to the medieval town of Gubbio, located a 45 minute drive away and renowned for its ancient bronze Iguvine Tablets. Or relax and go swimming at the picturesque Lake Trasimeno during the summer months, which is an hour’s drive away.
Across the border in neighbouring Tuscany and the nearest town to Città di Castello is Arezzo, which lies 23 miles away and to this day boasts medieval jousting tournaments twice-annually.
Your holiday in Città di Castello provides a gateway into the delightful Umbrian countryside, with the rolling hills of the Upper Tiber Valley closeby. Various cottage industries - including ceramics, and textiles, as well as farming - dominate this region. Head out of the city to discover seasonal food festivals, delightful hiking trails, and intimate rural experiences.
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Lines open: Monday to Saturday 09:00 to 17:30 (Wednesdays from 9:30), Bank Holidays 10:00 to 16:00.
During your holiday in Città di Castello you can explore numerous religious sites, including the restored Cattedrale dei Santi Florido e Amanzio, which boasts a remarkable decorative ceiling and an interesting crypt, and the Baroque-style Roman cathedral of Chiesa di San Francesco.
Renaissance Palazzo Albizzini
Discover a collection of abstract art from 1948 to 1989 by the esteemed artist Alberto Burri. There are 20 Florentine-style rooms to explore, which hold over 130 works hanging from whitewashed walls.
Ex Seccatoi del Tabacco
In the city’s environs you will find a unique gallery situated within an old tobacco drying factory. Alberto Burri used this industrial location as his workshop studio in the late 1970s. Today, it pays homage to the artist’s monumental later works.
Palazzo Vitelli alla Cannoniera
Witness a historic art collection from the greats of the art world, including Raphael, Luca Signorelli, Andrea della Robbia and Pomarancio.
Palazzo del Podestà
Palazzo del Podestà is a 14th century palace, designed by Angelo da Orvieto, who also designed Città di Castello’s epic Town Hall. This grand palace is just one of the many Gothic and Renaissance palaces in the city.
Tipografia Grifani Donati
Take a tour of a late 18th century print and lithography firm that continues to operate in much the same way today. Observe the old print presses and hand-operated machinery in the aged workshops.
Hiking
Explore the region’s natural beauty with various hiking opportunities in the city environs. One of the highlights is a three hour hike uphill to the medieval village of Monte Santa Maria Tiberina, where you can admire beautiful views of the valley below.
Terme di Fontecchio
The town Fontecchio, located less than two miles from Città di Castello, is a delightful spa town, home to ancient thermal baths. Relax in the sulfurous waters and mud baths.
Vintage market
The city’s central square, Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, hosts a unique market, where you can uncover an array of retro and antique treasures on the third Sunday of every month.
Swan Park
Swan Park is located on the outskirts of Città di Castello alongside the Tiber River. With an adventure play area, a swan pond, and welcoming picnic tables, this is a delightful setting for a family day out.
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