Perugia is the capital of Umbria; it is located on the hills of the right bank of the Tiber. The tour starts in Piazza IV Novembre, the historic center of the city. On this large square, you will find the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and its magnificent frescoes illustrated by Giotto, an influential Italian artist in the Middle Ages. You will walk through the various medieval streets, observe the ramparts of Rocca Paolina, which is the fortress that represented the power of Pope Paul III. Unfortunately, the ancient Etruscan, Roman and medieval heritage had to be destroyed or preserved in underground galleries accessible to the public.
But this is not part of our visit. Once you have walked the main streets of the historic center you will head with our guide to the Maggiore fountain, which was built in 1278 by a good number of craftsmen. It was designed to commemorate the arrival of water in Perugia. Our guide will introduce you to the history of these craftsmen and their role, listed on a Latin inscription of the fountain. Know that this is the first public fountain designed as an urban monument. It consists of multiple iconographies including 50 bas-reliefs and 24 statues. Each of the craftsmen created their own statue or relief and some figures represent characters from the history of the city and its legends, while others are symbolic. Following an earthquake in 1438 the fountain was rebuilt.
We will then continue to the Palazzo dei Priori, previously the seat of the city government in the Middle Ages. We will explore this Gothic building built between 1293 and 1443. When you enter, you will notice the griffin and the lion at its entrance. On the 3rd floor is the National Gallery of Umbria, which has acquired many collections ranging from paintings, sculptures and works of art from the 13th to the 19th century. Among the works of the artists you will see some masterpieces by Perugino, Pinturicchio, Benedetto Bonfigli, Fra Angelico and Piero della Francesca.
Available days: Every day
Bookable Starting Time: From 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Duration: 2 hours
Available Languages:
All, on reservation
Adult rate: The rate of the tour depends on the number of people. CALCULATE YOUR OWN RATE!
Child rate: Children free until 17 years old (accompanied by an adult)
Meeting Point: Piazza Italia, equestrian statue of Vittorio Emanuele II