While Perugia is the capital city of both Umbria and the province of Perugia, it remains a largely underrated destination in Italy. Located in the center of the boot, it isn't overcrowded with tourists or commercial shops, making it a charming, genuine locale to explore.
One of Perugia's main draws is its rich history. This Umbrian city was one of the main Etruscan communities; Today it successfully continues to highlight this heritage within its walls.
It's also home to the early 14th-century University of Perugia-one of the oldest universities in Italy-and hosts countless festivals throughout the year including the Umbria Jazz and Eurochocolate.
As a dynamic medieval town, it's filled with a balanced combination of cute cafes, boutiques and eateries, as well as, grand historic buildings, bustling squares where people watching is second to none and an infinite number of cobbled stone roads that lead to expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
You can't visit Perugia without exploring its historic center, which maintains a significant amount of its Etruscan foundations. Plus, it's car-free so, in addition to not having to worry about getting hit, it's an ideal area to roam on foot, preferably with a cappuccino in hand.
Piazza IV Novembre is the heart of the downtown area where the city's five main streets-known as the strade regali-converge. I could have spent hours watching life in the lively square pass by.
The square is large enough where you don't feel crammed, despite there being plenty of people?both foreigners and locals alike?gathering, chatting and admiring the architecture of the centuries-old buildings surrounding them.
In the middle of the square is an ornate fountain made up of light pink and white stone called the Fontana Maggiore. Make sure to take a good look at the centerpiece of the Piazza IV Novembre. Upon further examination, you'll see statues which represent scenes from the bible, zodiac signs, events from Roman history and more decorating the basin.
Behind the fountain resides the San Lorenzo Cathedral, and though its fa?ade was left unfinished, it's still quite a sight. Take a stroll inside to find an extensively embellished ceiling, the wedding ring of the Virgin (a safeguarded relic), sculptures and impressive frescos, including one by one of Perugia's most famed painters, Raphael.
Opposite the San Lorenzo Cathedral is the Palazzo dei Priori. Make note of the two bronze copies of the griffin of Perugia and the Guelph lion (two symbols of the city) located above the portal. Within the striking gothic palace is the National Art Gallery of Umbria, home to the region's most rare painting collections, as well as the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria, the Nobile Collegio del Cambio, the Nobile Collegio della Mercanzia and the Sala dei Notari.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Perugia, however, is underground. Nearby the main square is the Rocca Paolina fortress, which was built in 1540 by Pope Paul III after Perugia was defeated in the Salt War, one involving salt, taxes, rebellion and lots of bloodshed.
While at the Perugina House of Chocolate-and in addition to taking a factory tour and eating as many Baci as you can-be sure to partake in a Baci making class with a master chocolatier. Not only will you come away with dozens of Baci you made yourself, but you'll also get a certificate of proof that you're now a trained, Baci making professional.
Every single Baci is produced in Perugia with more than 500 million sold yearly. As the birthplace of Baci Perugina, Perugia has played and continues to play a crucial role to the brand's timelessness.
"It's one of those products that represent our way of being, our way of life and who we are as Italians. It's our heritage. It's one of the beloved products that pass through generation after generation and even today you can find it in all Italian houses."
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