Città della Pieve in Umbria Italy
Città della Pieve is set along the ridge of a hill which forms a plateau. From here, with its high bell towers, it dominates a vast, very cultivated territory which confines with Tuscany.
The rose-coloured houses, resulting from the terracotta which, since 1200 is produced on the premises, makes Città della Pieve similar to its near-by neighbour Siena. Today, the two cities still maintain cultural and economic ties.
The easily accessible national road and railway network – the "Autostrada del Sole" and the fast rail connection between Florence and Rome – benefit greatly the development of local activities linked to the tourist industry. Thus, travelers can easily discover the charm of this city, also known as homeland of Perugino, the great Umbrian painter of the 16th cent. whose beautiful paintings can still be admired throughout the city.
Brief History - In the 6th cent. b.c. Città della Pieve is attacked and destroyed by the Goths of Totila. With the Middle Ages, Città della Pieve is hit by a period of turbulence during which it is subjected to the rule of Frederick II, the city of Perugia and other powerful families.
The political and military instability continues until the 1600s when Città della Pieve becomes part of the Papal State developing into an important administrative and religious centre. Città della Pieve remains under Papal rule (with exception of the Napoleonic period) until 1860 when it is annexed by the Kingdom of Italy.
Città della Pieve is very proud of being the homeland of Pietro Vannucci also known by the nickname Perugino (1450-1523), great painter and Maestro to Raffaello.
Sights To See - In the centre of town:
Cathedral of the Ss. Gervasio and Protasio (12th cent. - restored in the 16th and 17th cent.), with two paintings by Perugino. Oratory and Church of S. Maria dei Bianchi (13th cent., rebuilt in the 18th cent.), fresco by Perugino. "Adoration of the Magi", pievese landscape, by P. Vannucci. Civic Tower (12th cent.) Fortress (14th cent.) Corgna Palace (16th cent.) Bandini Palace (16th cent.) Fargna Palace, seat of the Town Hall Baglioni Palace (18th cent.)
Outside the walls:
Church of St. Augustine (13th cent.) Church of St. Francis (13th cent.) and Oratory of St. Bartholomew. Church of S. Maria dei Servi (13th –14th cent.), fresco by Perugino. "Deposition of the Cross", by P. Vannucci. Church and Monastery of St. Lucy (13th cent. altered in the 18th cent.)
Surrounding Area: Franciscan Hermitage of St. Mary of the Angels (14th cent.), Medieval village at Salci. Curiosity - "Vicolo Baciadonne", said to be the narrowest street in Italy, it is only 80 cm wide.
Folklore and Events
Easter celebrations with scenes of the Passion of Christ, Easter pizza and "collagna" Festival. Festival of Ss. Gervasio and Protasio (June 19). Festival of S. Luigi (June 21), with flower decorations and Snail Festival. Palio of the Terzieri (August), parade in historical costumes and Bow Competition. Display of the Nativity scene (December)
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