Panicale rises on a spur of Mount Petrarvella in Umbria
Panicale rises on a spur of Mount Petrarvella, which dominates the valleys of the Nestore River and of Lake Trasimeno. The local economy is traditionally based on agriculture (oil, wine, cheese and grain) but is also supported by the handicraft industry (wrought iron, and embroidery) and industrial activities (woodwork).
The panoramic position and the local historical, artistic and cultural heritage emphasize the tourist potential of Panicale and open new areas for economic growth. Brief History - The origins of Panicale date back to the Etruscans who inhabited the area in the 7th cent. b.C.. It was also a secure refuge for the Roman soldiers who survived the battle of Lake Trasimeno, won by the Carthaginians of Hannibal.
In 1037, Panicale, after the fall of the Roman Empire and after the end of the Longobard domination, became one of the first Italian communes to declare independence and freedom from all external dominating groups
In the 13th century, Panicale accepted the seigniory of Perugia, but in 1316 it returned to being an independent commune with its own autonomous government.
The castle of Panicale was considered one of Italy’s most important and fortified and resisted all attempts to being captured until 1643, when the armies of Florence conquered it during the war between the Papal State and the Duchy of Parma.
Panicale then fell under the Church’s domain until the Kingdom of Italy was founded.
Sights To See - In the centre of town
Palace of the Podestà (14th cent.), Magisterial Palace, Caesar Caporali Theatre (18th – 19th cent.), Collegiate Church of St. Michael the Archangel (17th cent.), Church of St. Augustine, Church of the Madonna della Neve or della Sbarra (17th cent.), contains art work attributed to El Greco, Church of St. Sebastian (15th cent.), contains two valuable works by Perugino, "The Martyrdom of St. Sebastian", by Perugino, " Enthroned Virgin ", by Perugino,
Surrounding Area - Church of the Cercolana, Sanctuary of the Madonna di Grondici, Sanctuary of the Madonna di Mongiovino (16th cent.), Church of the Santissima Annunziata (16th cent.), at Tavernelle, Square at Tavernelle,
Folklore and Events - Procession of the Dead Christ (Good Friday), Tree Festival (April - May), Festival of S. Pellegrino (first Sunday in September), Festival of the patron saint – St. Michael the Archangel (September), Grape Festival (September), Caesar Caporali Literary Prize (October), Chestnut Festival (November), sampling of the products gathered from the woods and local sweets, Typical Local Products - Objects in wrought iron, Hand-embroidered tulle.
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