Spoleto, Administrative district in Umbria, Italy
Spoleto is a commune in the province of Perugia in Umbria, featuring narrow lanes between tall stone walls and medieval towers. The Rocca Albornoziana rises above the town center and offers views over the surrounding valley with its wooded hills.
The Romans founded a colony here in 241 BC, which Hannibal unsuccessfully besieged during the Second Punic War. A Lombard duchy emerged in the sixth century, controlling much of central Italy before papal forces took over the territory in the 14th century.
The name comes from Latin Spoletium and still appears on ancient stonework throughout the town. Many residents maintain small orchards on the surrounding slopes, growing olive trees that produce the local oil.
The old town sits on a hillside and requires uphill walking over cobblestones, so wear sturdy shoes. Early morning or late afternoon are quieter times to explore, as many locals go home for midday meals.
The Roman theater still hosts performances today, with spectators sitting on the same stone steps as audiences two thousand years ago. The cathedral preserves a letter that Francis of Assisi is said to have written by hand to a monk in the town.
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