Norcia is one of Umbria’s most distinctive historic towns, enclosed within mighty 13th–14th-century walls that have preserved its medieval layout. It is the birthplace of Saint Benedict of Norcia, patron saint of Europe, to whom the basilica on the main square is dedicated — severely damaged by the 2016 earthquake and today at the center of a reconstruction process followed closely by those who love Umbria.
Norcia gave its name to the art of “norcineria,” the processing of pork: strolling among the shops in the town center, you’ll find hams, cured meats, and of course the prized black truffle, of which the area is among Italy’s largest producers. Also worth seeing are the 16th-century Castellina and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Argentea.
A perfect stop for a morning of history, spirituality and locally sourced tastings, just 20 minutes from the farm stay.
In pictures
