Ancient, typical, unique, precious: villages are one of the most distinguishing elements of Umbria in terms of scenery, history, architecture. On rolling hills, on mountain tops, on river banks or in valleys immersed in the greenery of the region, the villages of Umbria offer truly unique attraction and charm, also for tourism. Awarding an important recognition from this point of view, is the “I Borghi più belli d’Italia” association, with no less than 28 recognitions within the region, Umbria has been elected as the top region for villages of great interest and beauty.
The most beautiful Villages of Italy in Umbria
No less than 28 Umbrian villages belong to the club of the Most Beautiful Villages of Italy. The region has therefore the highest number of recognitions, tying with Marche. The holders of this title are: Acquasparta, Allerona, Arrone, Bettona, Bevagna, Castiglione del Lago, Citerna, Corciano, Deruta, Lugnano in Teverina, Massa Martana, Monte Castello di Vibio, Montecchio, Montefalco, Monteleone d’Orvieto, Monteleone di Spoleto, Montone, Norcia, Paciano, Panicale, Passignano sul Trasimeno, Preci, San Gemini, Sellano, Spello, Torgiano, Trevi, Vallo di Nera. These villages adhered to a Charter of Quality and passed the certification process set forth by the association. The aim of the club is to protect, promote and develop the Towns who adhere. To be admitted they need to fulfil certain criteria, for example the population of the historical village or centre of the town or hamlet must not exceed two thousand and the town overall must not exceed 15,000. At least 70% of the village must feature historical buildings built prior to 1939 and offer a heritage of town planning and architectural quality. The places that adhere are asked to express their policy of valuing, developing, promoting and animating the area through concrete actions.
The “I Borghi più belli d’Italia” association was founded in 2001 right here in Umbria, specifically in Castiglione del Lago, on an impulse of the ANCI Tourism Council ANCI, Associazione Nazionale dei Comuni Italiani (National Association of Italian Townships). The idea, promoted with dedication and success, is to “value the heritage of history, art, culture, environment and traditions in Italian villages which are, for the most part, left out from the flows of visitors and tourists”. In fact many Italian villages risk depopulation and therefore abandonment and deteriorating. “We are not advocating ‘heavens on Earth’ – declared Fiorello Primi, president of the I Borghi più belli d’Italia association – however, we do want greater numbers of people to return to their villages and visitors who are interested in learning about them and enjoying the atmospheres, smells and flavours that turn ‘typical’ into a life model that is worth ‘trying out’ in every sense”.
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