Discovering Montefalco: the hidden village

From the panoramic viewpoints of the town, one can admire landscapes of pure beauty stretching from Perugia to Assisi, and further to Spello, Foligno, Spoleto, Trevi, Bevagna, and Gualdo Cattaneo. Among the hills covered with olive groves surrounding the village, the Apennines, Mount Subasio, and the Martani Mountains can also be seen, offering an incredibly moving panoramic spectacle.

The history of Montefalco

Montefalco is a picturesque town located in the Umbria region of Italy. Its history has ancient roots, with traces of settlements dating back to Roman times. However, Montefalco’s period of greatest splendor came during the Middle Ages, when it became an important religious and cultural center.

The name Montefalco derives from the presence of an ancient fortified castle that stood on a hill, dominating the surrounding landscape. During the 12th century, Montefalco became part of the territory of the powerful Trinci noble family, who contributed to its development and the construction of numerous churches and monasteries.

The town became famous for wine production, particularly the renowned Sagrantino, a robust and tannic red wine still considered one of the best in Italy today. Thanks to its strategic position along trade routes connecting central Italy to the rest of the peninsula, Montefalco became an important economic and political hub.

During the Renaissance, Montefalco experienced a period of great prosperity, with the construction of sumptuous noble residences and richly decorated churches. Among the city’s most famous works of art is the cycle of frescoes by Beato Angelico in the Church of San Francesco, one of the most important examples of Renaissance art in Umbria.

In the following centuries, Montefalco saw various dominations and political changes, until it became part of the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century. Today, Montefalco is a renowned tourist destination for its scenic beauty, millenary history, and excellent food and wine production. Every year, thousands of visitors crowd its medieval streets to admire its artistic treasures and taste its exquisite wines.

What to see in Montefalco

The historic center of Montefalco has a radial structure that reflects urban perfection. All the main streets converge toward the central square, Piazza del Comune. Facing this space are numerous buildings of interest, such as the Town Hall and the Oratory of Santa Maria, both dating back to the 13th century, the Church of San Filippo Neri (1705), later transformed into the Municipal Theater in the 19th century, and several 16th-century noble residences, such as Palazzo Santi-Gentili and the Senili, Langeli, and Camilli palaces.

From Piazza del Comune, visitors can stroll through the alleys of Montefalco to reach the Colla Mora district, which preserves a 13th-century atmosphere and houses the Church and Convent of San Francesco, built between 1335 and 1338 and rich in invaluable works of art.

Since 1895, the Church-Museum of San Francesco has hosted the Civic Museum, which offers several fascinating exhibition spaces. Among them are the former church halls, famous for the fresco cycle Stories from the Life of Saint Francis by Benozzo Gozzoli and the Nativity by Perugino. The museum’s art gallery displays paintings by artists such as Niccolò di Liberatore, Antoniazzo Romano, and Francesco Melanzio. In the crypt, local archaeological finds are exhibited, while the Minor Friars’ cellars present tools for wine production dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

Montefalco’s medieval character is visible in the defensive walls still standing, punctuated by gates such as the Gate of Frederick II, the Gate of Sant’Agostino, the Gate of the Rocca, Camiano, and San Leonardo. Along the walls lies the San Leonardo district, home to the Church of Santa Chiara and its convent.

Saint Clare herself was responsible for the construction of the church that bears her name in the 13th century, and her remains now rest in a silver urn inside. The Augustinian monastery of Santa Chiara, founded by her, can be visited upon request and houses various works of art, including a fresco by Gozzoli depicting Saint Clare and a charming cloister with a garden.

Where and what to eat in Montefalco

• Ristorante Il Coccorone: rustic atmosphere and delicious meat dishes, along with black truffle, as Umbrian tradition dictates.
• Ristorante Mordecai: traditional Umbrian cuisine featuring homemade pasta, truffle, and game.
• Enoteca Federico II: offers outdoor seating, vegetarian and gluten-free options, and an excellent wine selection.
• L’Alchimista: intimate, family-run restaurant with outdoor tables on the square, serving Umbrian wines and dishes.
• Il Postaccio: homely trattoria with typical Umbrian dishes and a daily menu.

Montefalco’s traditional cuisine is characterized by the use of genuine products and recipes handed down through generations, often linked to local festivals and traditions. One of the symbolic dishes of this area is gnocchi al Sagrantino Passito, a creative fusion of land and wine.

Sagrantino is the name of a fine red wine from the region. The gnocchi are prepared with a potato dough enriched with Sagrantino Passito and can be enjoyed with butter and caciotta cheese, which further enhance their flavor. Montefalco’s gastronomy is thus defined by authenticity and the richness of Umbrian food and wine, offering a wide range of flavors that reflect the territory’s tradition.

Unmissable events in Montefalco

During the summer, one of Montefalco’s must-see events is La Fuga del Bove, a traditional festival that transforms the main square into an open-air theater. Tastings, medieval jousts, and flag-thrower performances alternate with the evening dedicated to the “escape of the ox”: a reenactment of the popular game in which the town’s four districts compete by dragging and pushing their ox against those of rival neighborhoods.

The Harvest Festival in September and the Frantoi Aperti festival in November are also highlights of Montefalco’s calendar, offering workshops and guided tastings that celebrate local traditions and delight the palate, enriched by allegorical floats created by master craftsmen.

Local traditions and events

Montefalco’s deep-rooted traditions are closely tied to religion and gastronomy, forming a historical and cultural heritage intensely lived by the local community. Among the most celebrated events is the historical reenactment in medieval costume of La Fuga del Bove, held on August 12, 13, and 14, involving the town’s districts in a lively competition. During these days, Montefalco’s streets come alive with theatrical performances, drummers, flag-throwers, and crossbowmen, creating a festive and convivial atmosphere that immerses both locals and visitors in a unique experience blending history and tradition.

In addition to historical reenactments, Montefalco also celebrates its food and wine traditions with events such as Cantine Aperte, allowing visitors to taste fine local wines in a festive atmosphere. The Enologica Montefalco festival involves enthusiasts and experts in workshops, tastings, and various activities to promote the territory and its passion for wine. Finally, Rock Doc Live offers a unique opportunity for music lovers to enjoy live concerts in a suggestive wine-making setting.

Through these events, Montefalco’s local traditions are preserved and enhanced, promoting the culture and identity of the town in a complete and engaging way.