The vibrant Roman-Medieval town of Spoleto, which sits on the hills of the Umbrian region, is simply breathtaking. We don’t say that just because it’s Olivella hometown, others have made similar claims.
In a postcard addressed to his wife, Herman Hesse wrote: “Spoleto is the most beautiful discovery I made in Italy […], there is such a wealth of beauty almost unknown, mountains, valleys, forests of oaks, monasteries, waterfalls!”.
There are several reasons why Spoleto is a city to visit all year long: proximity to Rome and Tuscany, beautiful ancient spots like the Roman Theatre and many restaurants where you can enjoy a taste of black truffles, a local delicacy.
But there’s a special moment of the year, when churches, historical buildings, narrow streets and various piazzas all together and come alive. All of a sudden and for two full weeks in June and July, everything about Spoleto looks and smells like art, dance, opera, theater and music.
Since 1958, the year of the first Festival dei Due Mondi, each edition brings to town thousands of visitors for the shows, attracted to the idea of brushing up against famous actors or listening to live musicians. This year the program was full of must-see shows such as Jean-Paul Gaultier Fashion Freak Show, Proserpine, and the ballet featuring etoile Eleonora Abbagnato.
As Spoleto residents, we fully take advantage of this dolce vita atmosphere. We sit in the piazzas, relax, have a popular spritz and enjoy our city shining bright in the summer nights.
