Norcia, the village that survived violent earthquakes

Norcia, an ancient town in northern Umbria, probably derives its name from the Etruscan cult of the goddess Nortia, symbol of good fortune. Already an important meeting point among Italic peoples, it was conquered by Rome in 290 BC and later became an episcopal seat, birthplace of the twin saints Benedict and Scholastica. Under Otto I it entered the Papal States and endured devastating earthquakes in the 18th century, before its annexation to the Kingdom of Italy. The town blends sacred and secular: it hosts religious art, churches, and monasteries, alongside a renowned gastronomic tradition, especially the norcineria of cured meats and cheeses. Norcia fascinates with Benedictine spirituality, millennia of history, and food and wine culture, offering a unique experience of taste, art, and contemplation.

What to see in Norcia

The historic core of Norcia is enclosed within 13th-century heart-shaped walls, with eight ancient gates and medieval towers. Entering through Porta Romana leads to Corso Sertorio and the main square dedicated to Saint Benedict, where the Town Hall, the Basilica of Saint Benedict, and the Rocca Castellina stand. The fortress, designed by Vignola, now houses the Civic and Diocesan Museum. The Gothic basilica rises on the presumed birthplace of the saint and preserves architectural and historical elements altered over the centuries.

The Co-Cathedral of Santa Maria Argentea, built between 1556 and 1570 in Renaissance style, holds important works of art, including a wooden crucifix from 1494 and Duquesnoy’s altar (1640). The former Church of San Francesco is one of the finest examples of local Gothic art, while the Church of Sant’Agostino and the votive Tempietto on Via Umberto testify to the town’s artistic richness. In the Capolaterra district, the Oratory of Sant’Agostinuccio displays gilded wooden ceilings and 17th-century details. Noble palaces such as Cipriani and Passerini preserve portals, balconies, and 18th-century staircases, reflecting the many reconstructions after earthquakes, the most recent in 2016, which caused extensive damage.

Events and traditions

In Norcia, popular traditions mark the rhythm of the year. On January 5, the pasquarellari sing from house to house about the birth of the Messiah. On January 17, Saint Anthony Abbot is celebrated with the blessing of livestock, salt, and grain. At the end of February, the town hosts the Black Truffle and Typical Products Fair. In spring, the Benedictine Torch highlights the values of Saint Benedict, while on Good Friday the procession of the Dead Christ takes place. Between April and June, Piantamaggio and La Fiorita in Castelluccio are celebrated. In summer, festivals and concerts enliven the squares, and December closes with Le Campane or Li Fauni.

What to see around Norcia

The surroundings of Norcia offer natural landscapes and historic villages of great charm. The Sibillini Mountains National Park invites visitors to hike among mountains, valleys, and lakes, including the famous Lake Pilato, the only habitat of the endemic crustacean Chirocephalus marchesonii. In spring, the Castelluccio Plain transforms with La Fiorita, an explosion of flowers and colors. Nearby villages such as Castelluccio, Preci, and Cascia preserve churches, convents, and local traditions. Food lovers can visit producers of lentils, black truffles, and norcineria.

Norcia remains a place where spirituality, history, and gastronomy intertwine, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through resilience and beauty.

photo credits Nadine Stone