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Italy » Umbria » Norcia ( 604 mt above sea
level, about 5000 people )
Norcia emerges unexpectedly over a tableland at 600 mt above sea level,
surrounded by an amphitheatre of high mountains. Norcia lies in a fertile
landscape and produces a rich and excellent harvest. (Of note are the
famous lentils of Castelluccio di Norcia). Local people breed pigs which
are famous for the production of superior quality Italian salami). Norcia
is the native town of St. Benedetto and hosts an important patrimony of
works of art and historical objects
Piazza San Benedetto da Norcia: Right in the historic center, it hosts the
most important buildings; the church of St. Benedetto, the Cathedral and
the Palazzo Comunale ( Town hall) .
The church of San Benedetto : Gothic style building, it has a nice
portal overlapped by a rose window. On the right side 15th century
portico. Latin cross interiors with single nave. In the crypt it preserves
some remains of an ancient Roman house and many important works of art.
Palazzo Comunale : Imposing building with an elegant facade with
portico. Several works of art in the interior.
The Cathedral: restored in the 18th C, it has a Gothic portal
and well-built bell tower. It hosts valuable works of art.
Castellina : Stately fortress built by Vignola in 1563 by order of
Giulio III. It hosts the Civic Diocesan Museum.
Civic Diocesan Museum : It preserves several works of art. Notable
are two big paintings of the 16th century by Antonio da Faenza ( Madonna
and Saints ).
San Francesco: 15th C church with a very nice rose window and
rich portals on the sides. Frescoes in the interior.
Sant Agostino : Gothic church characterized by the nice lancet
portal. Rich interior with frescoes.
A sight not to be missed is "Castelluccio di Norcia" and the wonderful
spring blooming of " Pian Perduto", "Piano Piccolo" and "Piano Grande".
(in June)
Norcia events and festivals:
Last weekend in February : National
truffle exhibition | March : Benedictine celebrations - historic parade. |
Easter time : Good Friday evocative procession with life scenes of
Passion. | Dec 9 : Feast of Faoni, lighting of big fires in the farmyards.
Typical products : Salami, truffles, cheese, lentils,
hand-embroidered textiles, copper handicrafts .
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