Todi is a storybook town perched on a hilltop that overlooks the glorious countryside of the Tiber Valley. It’s a warren of narrow lanes and staircases that fan out in all directions from postcard-perfect squares. Settled by the Umbri tribe, developed by the Etruscans and later ruled by the Romans, Todi also boasts Renaissance and Baroque influences. Discover a magnificent collection of churches, gateways, palaces and public gardens.
The town’s heart is a medieval quarter protected by a series of concentric walls built at differing historical periods. The Primero Cerchio delle Mura, Secondo Cerchio delle Mura and Terzo Cerchio delle Mura (First, Second and Third Circle of Walls) relate to the Etruscan civilization, Roman era and Middle Ages, respectively.
Start your tour at Piazza del Popolo, the town’s monumental central square. Sit on the steps of the Cathedral of Todi and gaze across the square to the Palazzo del Popolo, home to the Museo Etrusco-Romano. See the remains of underground tunnels at the Cisterne Romano. Wander freely along the zigzagging streets and pass beneath ancient gates such as Porta Aurea, Porta Catena, Porta Marzia and Porta Prassede.
Take a moment to appreciate the town’s wealth of churches, including Tempio di San Fortunato. Outside the walls of the old town is the 16th-century Renaissance masterpiece, Santa Maria della Consolazione.
Enjoy some downtime at Parco della Rocca, a tree-shaded park with panoramic views of the surrounding green landscapes. Find an equally impressive viewpoint at Piazza Garibaldi.
After a day of sightseeing, experience a warm welcome at the town’s bars and restaurants. Sample palomba alla ghiotta, a typical Todi dish of slow-cooked, skewered pigeon. Complement it with a glass of floral and fruity locally produced white wine.
Todi is situated in the southwest of the province of Perugia. It’s about a 2-hour drive north from Rome. Public buses travel regularly between the town and the city of Perugia. With its enviable old world charm, Todi is an ideal antidote to Italy’s tourist-heavy destinations.
