Spello, known as the “village of flowers”, is a picturesque medieval town tucked away in the heart of Umbria, Italy. With its stone alleys, flower-adorned balconies, and stunning views of the surrounding valley, it’s a delightful destination that offers a genuine taste of Italian charm and history. If you’re wondering what to do in Spello, you’ll find a wealth of history, art, and natural beauty packed into this compact, enchanting town.
What to see and do in Spello, the village of flowers
Spello is famous for the care its residents take in decorating the town with vibrant flowers. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a botanical garden. Don’t miss these key experiences:
- Wander the Flower-Adorned Alleys: Simply getting lost is the best activity. Seek out the “Vicolo degli Asini” (Donkeys’ Alley) and the “Arco di Augusto” (Arch of Augustus), both famed for their floral displays.
- Visit the Churches: The town is full of beautiful small churches, each with its own history.
- Enjoy the Panoramic Views: Climb to the higher parts of the town, like near the Belvedere, for breathtaking vistas of the Valle Umbra.
Exploring Spello’s top attractions and historic sites
To answer the question what to see in Spello, these are the must-visit historic sites that define the town:
- Cappella Baglioni in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore: This is arguably Spello’s biggest artistic treasure. Inside this chapel, you will find the magnificent frescoes painted by the Renaissance master Pinturicchio. His detailed, colourful work, especially the Annunciation and the Adoration of the Magi, is truly breathtaking and essential viewing.
- Torri di Properzio (Propertius’ Towers): These towering, square Roman gates flank the Porta Consolare, the main entrance to the town. They are a powerful reminder of Spello’s Roman past (known as Hispellum).
- Roman Arch and Walls: Remnants of the original Roman city walls and gates, such as the Arco di Augusto and Porta Urbica, are scattered throughout the town, blending seamlessly with the medieval architecture.
How to get to Spello: travel tips
If you’re planning your trip, you’ll want to know how to get to Spello. Thankfully, Spello is quite accessible:
- By Train: Spello has a small train station located on the Foligno-Terontola line. Direct trains are frequent from Perugia and Assisi, and it’s a manageable journey from major cities like Rome via a change in Foligno. The station is a short walk from the historic centre.
- By Car: Spello is just off the main SS75 motorway that connects Perugia and Foligno. Parking is available just outside the main city walls, as traffic is restricted within the historic center.
- As a Day Trip: Spello makes for a perfect day trip, especially when combined with a visit to nearby Assisi or Montefalco.
Infiorata di Spello: a spectacular floral event
The event known as Infiorata a Spello is what truly brings the town international fame. It’s a religious celebration that takes place every year on the ninth Sunday after Easter (the Feast of Corpus Domini).
For days leading up to the event, the entire town is covered in spectacular carpets of flowers, painstakingly arranged by local artists into intricate designs, religious scenes, and incredible geometric patterns. These temporary masterpieces cover the streets and squares, creating a kaleidoscope of colour and scent. Experiencing the Infiorata di Spello is a once-in-a-lifetime sight, transforming the already flowery village into an unbelievable open-air art gallery.
Is Spello worth visiting? Why it’s a hidden gem
The answer is a resounding yes, Spello is worth visiting!
While nearby Assisi draws massive crowds, Spello remains a tranquil and authentic Umbrian experience. It’s a town of manageable size, offering a perfect blend of history (Roman walls, Renaissance art) and unparalleled charm (the flower decorations). Spello is one of Italy’s most beautiful small towns (I Borghi più belli d’Italia) and a genuine hidden gem. It offers the chance to slow down, enjoy exceptional local cuisine, and simply soak in the stunning atmosphere of a perfectly preserved medieval village.
Have you ever considered adding a smaller, charming Italian town like Spello to your itinerary?