Bevagna, the village of historic fine textiles

Bevagna, one of the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy, rises in the heart of Umbria and has roots in an ancient past. The name derives from the Etruscan family name Mefana, evidence of an Etruscan presence predating that of the Umbrians; for the Romans it became Mevania. The history of the village is intertwined with crucial moments: from the supposed memory of the battle of 308 BC reported by Livy, to the alliance with Rome after 295. In 774 it entered the Papal States, while remaining tied to the Franks and later to the Empire. Already in 1187 there is mention of the free commune and, in 1249, of the autonomous election of the podestà. After the rule of the Trinci family (1371–1439), Bevagna returned permanently under the Church until 1860, when it became part of the Kingdom of Italy.

The beauties of the village

Remaining far from the Umbrian industrial routes, Bevagna has preserved almost intact its medieval layout, often superimposed on the plan of the Roman city. This isolation has made the village an example of a human‑scale town, perfectly legible in Piazza Silvestri, where different styles, times, and histories blend together in surprising harmony. At the center of communal life stands the Palazzo dei Consoli (1270), elegant and marked by Gothic mullioned windows, with a loggia that since 1886 has housed the Torti Theater. Opposed to civil power is the ecclesiastical one, represented by numerous churches: San Michele, San Silvestro, and San Domenico with their evocative façades, portals, and interiors. Roman elements emerge everywhere, such as columns and mosaics, testimony to an imperial past that includes a theater, temple, and baths. The medieval walls with towers and gates enclose the historic center, where artisan workshops animate the characteristic alleys. Other churches of great interest include Santa Maria in Laurenzia, Santa Maria della Consolazione, Santa Margherita, Sant’Agostino, Santa Maria del Monte, San Vincenzo, San Francesco, and San Filippo, preserving frescoes, paintings, and decorations that recount centuries of faith, art, and beauty, making Bevagna a unique historical and cultural jewel in Italy.

Events that enliven the village

Bevagna offers a rich calendar of events that combines tradition, art, and culture. The Procession of the Dead Christ on Good Friday and the Race of the Risen Christ on Easter Sunday are sacred representations of ancient origin. In spring, the Primavera Medievale takes place, a preview of the famous Mercato delle Gaite (penultimate Friday – last Sunday of June), one of the most important events in Umbria, which recreates ancient crafts, historical markets, and medieval banquets animated by musicians and dancers. Also in spring, Arte in Tavola offers food and wine itineraries with typical local products. In July, In Chartis Mevaniae combines the tradition of handmade paper with the works of contemporary artists, accompanied by thematic conferences. In August, Agosto Bevanate offers concerts and artistic events. Throughout the year, the Francesco Torti Municipal Theater hosts the prose theater season, while the classical music concert season runs from November to April, ensuring cultural events in every period of the year.

Photo credits:ermess