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Orvieto is a one-hour drive north of Rome, making it perfect for day trips from Rome. It is so close to Rome that it is a must see for anyone who is trying to find things to do near Rome. The tourist facilities and parking are excellent, and getting in and out of Orvieto is very easy.
From about 800 A.D., Orvieto was an important center of Etruscan life. The word Tuscany, comes from the Roman word Etrusci, meaning Etruscans. Tuscany is the familiar land of Florence and Siena, which are about two hours to the North of Orvieto.
For the Popes, Orvieto was a favorite stopping point for about 500 years starting in 1000 A.D. The city was controlled by the Popes during this period. They probably took their own day trips from Rome! It became part of modern Italy in 1860.
Orvieto has a number of very famous sights for tourists. One of the most important is the Duomo di Orvieto, or the main church or cathedral. It was constructed in the 14th century. There are also the Orvieto Caves, an underground city made and used by the Popes.
Though Orvieto is not quite as touristy and friendly as Assisi, which is a couple hours to the north, Orvieto is very famous for its cathedral. This is a must see for anyone who has the transportation to get there for one of your day trips froim Rome.
If you have also been to Siena, you can see that the Orvieto Duomo Cathedral has a lot of the same Tuscan Gothic style influence.
[cmamad id=”566″ align=”center” tabid=”display-desktop” mobid=”display-desktop”]One of the most interesting things about the Orvieto cathedral is the incredible cylindrical columns, which are made of alternating rows of travertine and basalt. This gives a black and white striped effect that is unique. This pattern also is used on the outside walls.
Orvieto is also well known for its wine, called Orvieto Classico. Orvieto Classico is made from the best selections of grapes from Procanico, Verdello, Malvasia, Grechetto and Drupeggio varieties.
I went to school in Florence in 1970, and we used to love the wines from Orvieto. Right now I prefer the oakey chardonnays of California. Orvieto wines are lighter and sweeter. Not MY favorite, but it might be yours. However, I enjoyed being able to buy some again.
When you get to Orvieto on one of your day trips from Rome, just park in one of the main parking areas, and it is easy to walk or take an elevator into town. It is also easy to get lost in town! So make sure you pick up a tourist map when you get there.
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