Basilica di San Pietro, Perugia / Info
A Benedictine abbey, the Church of San Pietro was founded in the 10th century. The main court is dominated by the polygonal clock-tower, allegedly built on the site of an Etruscan tomb that was used for its construction in the 13th century. After a partial collapse, the upper section was rebuilt in 1463. Rich in art, there are frescoes dating from the 14th century as well as paintings by Perugino. The interior is a mixture of ancient columns and has a Palaeochristian basilical structure. The Gothic wooden choir is considered to be one of the finest in Italy and was completed between 1525 and 1591.
Castle of the Knights of Malta, Magione / Info
The Sovereign Military Order of Malta, owner of the Castle of the Knights of Malta in Magione, was founded about nine centuries ago in Jerusalem with the aim of protecting the Holy Land. Originally called the "Order of St. John of Jerusalem", it is one of the most ancient institutions of western and Christian civilisation. The castle dates back to 1150-1170 and was meant as a shelter for pilgrims going to Rome or to Jerusalem, also being conveniently located close to the Via Francigena which was used for travelling to Santiago de Compostela. The present structure is the result of several changes during the centuries. The courtyard where the concerts are held dates from 1471. In the oldest part of the castle, there is a Romanesque-styled church with a rounded vault honouring St. John the Baptist. Inside are two precious frescoes of the school of Pinturicchio, dating from the early sixteenth century. In 1502, the castle was the seat of a conspiracy organized by some Italian noblemen against Cesare Borgia, known as the “dieta alla Magione nel Perugino” and which Machiavelli refers to in The Prince. Today, with its headquarters in Rome, the Order carries out its activities in 110 countries and succeeds in engaging volunteers all over the world for humanitarian assistance and social activities. The Order has diplomatic relations with 92 countries as well as with European organisations and a seat at the United Nations. It is neutral, impartial and non-political, which is why it can successfully act as a mediator. The farm of the Castle of the Knights of Malta produces 100,000 bottles of wine each year, with production rising steadily. It also produces extra virgin olive oil. Placed in the restored ancient rooms of the castle, the cellar is a beautiful example of tradition and innovation.
Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo, Perugia / Info
San Michele Arcangelo is a Catholic church located in Perugia.
One of the most ancient early Christian churches in Italy (5th-6th Centuries), it was most likely built on the remains of a Roman temple, itself built on land sacred to the Etruscans. Also called Orlando's Pavilion, Temple of St. Michael the Archangel, Temple of St. Angelo, Temple of Porta Sant'Angelo or Tempietto, this church stands on one of the highest points of the city and can be reached by climbing up through Corso Garibaldi and crossing a narrow driveway. A small green courtyard leads to the building. The structure retains typical Roman features. The interior consists of two concentric compartments, separated by sixteen repurposed Roman columns with Corinthian capitals, and four chapels arranged in the shape of a Greek cross. There are 12 windows to allow a bright light to grace the space.
Mystery enthusiasts passing through Perugia cannot fail to pay a visit to this church. Indeed, very peculiar symbols appear inside. On the entrance jambs and around the neck of the Madonna in one of the frescoes, patent crosses can be seen: representations linked to the mystical universe of the Templars, a religious brotherhood of the Middle Ages whose legendary history is full of secrets and enigmas. A few meters from the entrance, moreover, a pentagram makes its appearance, a symbol linked to the cult of Venus, associated with black magic in the Middle Ages.
One of the most ancient early Christian churches in Italy (5th-6th Centuries), it was most likely built on the remains of a Roman temple, itself built on land sacred to the Etruscans. Also called Orlando's Pavilion, Temple of St. Michael the Archangel, Temple of St. Angelo, Temple of Porta Sant'Angelo or Tempietto, this church stands on one of the highest points of the city and can be reached by climbing up through Corso Garibaldi and crossing a narrow driveway. A small green courtyard leads to the building. The structure retains typical Roman features. The interior consists of two concentric compartments, separated by sixteen repurposed Roman columns with Corinthian capitals, and four chapels arranged in the shape of a Greek cross. There are 12 windows to allow a bright light to grace the space.
Mystery enthusiasts passing through Perugia cannot fail to pay a visit to this church. Indeed, very peculiar symbols appear inside. On the entrance jambs and around the neck of the Madonna in one of the frescoes, patent crosses can be seen: representations linked to the mystical universe of the Templars, a religious brotherhood of the Middle Ages whose legendary history is full of secrets and enigmas. A few meters from the entrance, moreover, a pentagram makes its appearance, a symbol linked to the cult of Venus, associated with black magic in the Middle Ages.
Oratorio di San Francesco dei Nobili, Perugia / Info
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Piazza, Town of San Savino, Magione / Info
From San Savino there is a wonderful view of the south end of Lake Trasimeno and the Isola Polvese. The first documents in which the town is mentioned date from 1006. Only the tower remains from the former castle. The piazza is in front of it, surrounded by the homes of the local residents.
Sala dei Notari, Perugia / Info
The Sala dei Notari was built from 1293 to 1297 and is where the nobility met. The arches supporting the vaults are Romanesque, covered with frescoes depicting biblical scenes and Aesop's fables. To reach the hall, walk up the steps from the Piazza IV Novembre. Today the hall is used for public meetings as well as classical music concerts.
