Corciano, the “bee-friendly” village

Nestled among the Umbrian hills, Corciano is one of the most fascinating medieval villages of the region. Its origins intertwine history and legend: the name may derive from the Latin Curtius – owner of a rustic estate – or from Coragino, mythical companion of Ulysses and founder of the castle. According to popular tradition, it could also mean “Heart of Janus” or “Hill of Janus.”

Already inhabited by the Etruscans and later by the Romans, Corciano saw the rise of flourishing agricultural villae. Over the centuries it was the stage of important events: from the passage of Saint Francis in 1223, to the construction of churches and monasteries, up to the sieges of mercenary companies. In 1860 it entered the Kingdom of Italy, while preserving its intact medieval core. Today, Corciano safeguards a heritage of history, art, and spirituality that reflects the most authentic soul of Umbria.

Discover the village of Corciano

Located between Perugia and Lake Trasimeno, Corciano rises on a hill overlooking the valley between Tuscany and the Tiber. Born as a medieval castrum “on a hill,” it preserves a concentric street layout enclosed by three rings of 13th–14th century walls. Highlights include the municipal tower (13th century), the Town Hall – once residence of the Dukes of Corgna – and the Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo, an elegant 15th-century building. In Piazza Coragino stands a Renaissance well from the 15th century.

Among sacred buildings, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta houses the Assumption by Perugino and the Gonfalone by Bonfigli. Also noteworthy are the Church of San Cristoforo, now the Museum of the Pievania, and the complex of Sant’Agostino (14th century) with its 18th-century wooden choir. Just outside the walls lies the Church of San Francesco, linked to the tradition of the Saint’s passage, with traces of medieval frescoes. Worth attention too are the Church of Santa Maria del Serraglio and the Castle of Pieve del Vescovo, Renaissance residence of the bishops of Perugia.

The territory also offers a rich natural heritage: the woods of Monte Malbe, with hermitages, ancient charcoal pits, and trails leading to evocative places such as the Troscia del Melo and the hermitage of San Salvatore. Nearby, Solomeo – a restored medieval village – is today home to a renowned cashmere company.

Curiosity

The Umbrian village has launched APErtaMENTE, an initiative that places bees at the center, silent guardians of biodiversity and key allies in the fight against climate change.

Events and traditions

Throughout the year, Corciano comes alive with events that transform the village into a unique stage. In April, Corciano Bimbi brings to life the “castle of dreams” with shows, workshops, animals, and free games for children, accompanied by delicious street food. In August, the Agosto Corcianese – Corciano Festival celebrates art, music, and medieval reenactments, with unmissable events such as the Procession of the Light (August 14), the Minstrels’ Evenings, and the Gonfalone Parade (August 15). In October, Corciano Castello di Vino offers a sensory journey of tastings, concerts, and food-and-wine events. Finally, between December and Epiphany, Christmas in Corciano enchants with nativity scenes, installations, exhibitions, and the famous life-size monumental nativity, transforming the village into a magical medieval setting.

A few kilometers from the village

The surroundings of Corciano combine nature, art, and tradition. Just a few kilometers away stands the Castle of Pieve del Vescovo, an imposing medieval fortress transformed into a Renaissance palace by the bishops of Perugia. Nature lovers can explore the woods of Monte Malbe, rich in hiking trails, ancient charcoal pits, karst sinkholes, and evocative hermitages such as San Salvatore, immersed in greenery and silence. Not to be missed is the Troscia del Melo, a small pond hosting rare wildlife species. A short distance away lies Solomeo, a fascinating medieval village restored to its former splendor and today world-famous for its cashmere production.

Corciano is a place where history, nature, and tradition blend harmoniously, offering visitors an authentic and unforgettable experience.

photo credits essevu