Echos of Umbria

We spent the last week in the Umbria region of Italy, exploring so many incredible places. Thankfully, we had a car and were able to really enjoy the lovely countryside…the rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, stone villages, and those tall, pointy cypress trees that make Italy look like a painting.

Our first stop was Assisi, and it was mesmerizing to immerse ourselves in the story of Saint Francis. It was amazing to learn how deeply he was moved by the love of God and how he left the comfort of his wealthy family, gave away his inheritance, and devoted his life to serving others and sharing about Jesus. He seemed like such an incredible person who valued simplicity, community, and compassion above all else.

Our next stay was in a 1,000 year old castle, which felt like sleeping in a museum. We had the entire place to ourselves, perched high on a hill with not another soul in sight. It was peaceful, almost sacred. The kind of quiet that stays with you. The family who owns the castle has preserved its long history, and it was fascinating to read all about its past.

Along the way, we stopped at Civita di Bagnoregio, a breathtakingly well-preserved ancient village built atop a volcanic tuff plateau about 2,500 years ago. It felt like stepping into another world. Also unforgettable was our visit to Marmore Falls, where we stayed to see the timed water release. This is when the falls thunder to life and a rainbow appears through the mist.

Our last stop was Orvieto, a hilltop city built on volcanic rock known for its ancient caves and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy — the Orvieto Duomo. Inside, we learned about the miracle that inspired its construction and saw the powerful frescoes of Luca Signorelli, whose vivid depiction of the Last Judgment later inspired Michelangelo’s work in the Sistine Chapel. It left a deep impression on both of us.

Umbria felt like the heart of Italy: peaceful, spiritual, and full of quiet beauty. Each hilltop town had its own story, and together they reminded us that history isn’t just something you read about, it’s something you can still walk through, touch, and feel.Read more