Sheltered by the lower slope of Ingino and protected by the 3 kilometers of solid Medieval walls that surround it, Gubbio is one of the most characteristic and picturesque cities not only in Umbria but in all of Italy. It was most likely founded by the Umbrians at the beginning of the first millenium A.C. and reached its peak splendor during the period of free city- states (12th century). An amazing ancient city-state, Gubbio still maintains today its Medieval aspect and its unique urban structure, which is made up of five parallel roads, each situated on different levels along the slope of the mountain, and each one connected to the others by small alleys and stairways.
The strongest evidence of the city’s ancient origins comes from the Tavole Eugubine, an extremely important document in Italian history which is the only source for studying the language of the ancient Umbrians and of their religious practices, and evidence is seen also in the Roman theater located right outside of the city walls. Gubbio is home to numerous architectural masterpieces, such as the Piazza Pensile, the Palazzo Pretorio, the Palazzo Ducale, the cathedral and the Palazzo dei Consoli, the last a symbol of the city that represents one of the most majestic and daring urban creations from the Middle Ages.
Among the many important events that take place in the city, it is without a doubt worth mentioning the Corsa dei Ceri (May 15) and the commemoration of the Palio della Balestra (the last Sunday in May) Obviously if you visit the town you are obligated to sample some of local culinary treats. At the top of the list are the delicious truffles, both white and black, that the territory is rich in, but it is also worth trying the “crescia”, the traditional bread of Gubbio, a variety of sumptous grilled meats, the passatelli (local homemade pasta), wild game, and during the period of Easter a special form of crescia that is made with cheese.
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