Almost irrespective of the time of year you visit, you’ll probably find Bevagna to be a pretty quiet, sleepy town but don’t let this put you off. If anything, this is part of its charm! With its ancient Roman layout, Roman walls and Medieval streets, it’s not for good reason that Bevagna has earned its space in the list of âborghi piu belli dâItalia‘. We always recommend a visit to Bevagna to anyone staying in one of our Umbria villas.
What to see and do in Bevagna
Any visit to Bevagna must start in its central square â Piazza Silvestri. This is where you will find the 12th century Palazzo dei Consoli and the 19th century Teatro Torti within the great hall on its first floor. There is also a fountain in the centre of the square which may look rather ancient but actually dates back as recently as the 18th century.
Bevagna is also home to a number of churches including the Church of the monastery of Santa Margherita and the 18th century church of San Filippo. Two Romanesque churches â the smaller San Silvestro church built in 1195 and the larger San Michele church â mark the only break from the largely Gothic architecture that dominates Bevagnaâs historic centre. The latter has been modified a number of times since it was first built due to damage caused by earthquakes. The striking rose window, for example, is a 19th century addition.
The last of Bevagna’s churches is the Church of Saint Francis which dates back to the 13th century and which sits at the highest point of the town. Whilst the interior was renovated in the 18th century, it still contains a number of earlier works including two 16th century frescos by Doni Doni and a Pieta by Ascensidonio Spacca which dates to a slightly later time. This is where you will also find the stone on which St Francis supposedly leaned as he preached to the birds at Pian d’Arca.
It’s still possible to see the remains of the 1st century Roman theatre in front of this church. This would once have held as many as 10,000 spectators. Other Roman remains in Bevagna include the Roman Thermae (baths) in which a black and white floor mosaic depicting tritons, squid, seahorses and lobsters can still be seen. And there are also the remains of an ancient 2nd century AD temple possibly dedicated to Saturn.
Finally, there is also a museum in Bevagna. This is to be found in the 17th century Palazzo Lepri which is where you will also find the town hall. The museum houses a number of important archaeological artefacts as well as an extensive collection of artwork by artists who worked in Bevagna including Ascensidonio Spacca, Doni Doni, Andrea Camassei, Joseph Esperlin and more.
Events in Bevagna
Bevagna’s main event takes place in June. The annual Mercato delle Gaite is an event that celebrates the traditions and trades of Bevagnaâs fascinating Medieval past including silk spinning, glass making, candle making and much more. During the festival, the streets are strewn with hay and in what is almost like a piece of incredible live theatre, residents re-create what life would have been like all those years ago with market stalls, inns, blacksmiths and potters all selling their wares. Not only that but youâll find the four quarters of the town competing in various Medieval games. As with so many of Italyâs festivals, it goes without saying that it’s also a chance to try the very best of the delicious local cuisine washed down by some of the very best local wines!
Where to stay in Bevagna
As gorgeous as Bevagna is, we always recommend that our clients stay in the nearby town of Spello. Less than 15 minutes away by car, Spello is just as authentic but its larger size means you have a lot more places to choose from when it comes to eating out. Check out this 3 bedroom villa in Spello or this smaller 1 bedroom Spello apartment.
If you would prefer to stay in Bevagna itself, then check out the hotels in Bevagna available from our recommended partner, Expedia.
How to get to Bevagna
By train:Â The nearest train station to Bevagna is in Foligno, which is less than 10 kms away. If youâre dependent on public transport, then you can then take a bus from Foligno to Bevagna.
By bus:Â Bevagna is easy to reach by bus and the journey will only take about 15 mins from Foligno. There are two main bus stops in Bevagna – Vocabolo Fossa Renosa and Via Monte Priora. Both are a 5-8 minute walk from the historic centre of the town.
By car:Â Whilst you wonât be able to drive into the town (the streets are too narrow), parking is available outside the city walls in a choice of 3 car parks dependent on what direction you’re coming from.
By air: The nearest airport to Bevagna is Perugia.
Tempted to visit Bevagna for yourself? They check out the villas in Umbria available to rent from Umbria villa rental experts, Bookings For You.