Spello: The Flower-Filled Gem of Umbria

Spello: The Flower-Filled Gem of Umbria

Nestled on the southern slopes of Mount Subasio, between Assisi and Foligno, Spello is a captivating medieval hill village in the heart of Umbria, Italy. 

Recognized as one of "The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy," Spello boasts a rich tapestry of Roman heritage, medieval architecture, and vibrant floral displays that guarantee the city the title of "city of flowers". 

Its well-preserved ancient walls, cobbled streets, Roman piazzas and panoramic views of the Umbrian green valley make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic Italian charm and La Dolce Vita.

A flowered cobblestone street in Spello, Umbria, leading straight to the Santa Maggiore Church

The History of Spello

Spello’s history begins more than 2000 years ago, during the peak of the Roman Empire. It was the Romans who originally called it Hispellum (from which derives its current name), apparently on the basis of the name of its mythical founder Ispeo Pelisio, one of the companions of Aeneas, lost during the trip.

In 41 A.C. Octavian Augustus took over the city (which was already at the time an ancient Umbrian center) and made it the Colony Iulia Hispellum. At that time, Romans used to call it “La Splendidissima Colonia Julia” (the Splendid Colony Iulia), as it is called in several inscriptions, with walls, baths, theater and urban system that have come down to us.

Around 450-500 A.D. Spello is granted the right to celebrate religious ludi for Umbria, and there is the first testimony of a bishop in the city, highlighting the connection with the State of the Church.

A few years later Spello is conquered by the Lombards and becomes part of the Duchy of Spoleto. Under the Duchy, Spello is given a municipal system and is divided into three "terzieri" (districts):

  1. Porta Chiusa
  2. Mezota
  3. Posterula 

Defended only by a small army and remained involved in the power struggle between Spoleto and Perugia (that is, respectively between the Church and the Empire), in 1238 Federico II destroyed it, and the Ghibelline party, supported by the Empire and Perugia, prevailed until 1358.

At this point, Cardinal Albornoz recovers and returns to the church Spello, but the city, unfortunately, remains in the midst of power disputes for many years, until 1829, when Pope Leo XII grants Spello the title of "City".

Why Spello is Called the "City of Flowers"

Spello's moniker as the "City of Flowers" is well-earned. 

In fact, every year from May to August, residents participate in a friendly competition called “Infiorata”, adorning their homes, balconies, and alleyways with vibrant floral arrangements. This communal effort transforms the town into a living garden, with each corner bursting in color and fragrance. The tradition not only showcases the community's love for nature but also their dedication to preserving Spello's aesthetic allure.

The "infiorata" is a friendly competition held every year in Spello, Umbria, where locals create masterpiece using flower petals

The Infiorata: A Floral Masterpiece

The highlight of Spello's floral celebrations is the annual Infiorata, held during the Feast of Corpus Christi, at the beginning of June.

On this occasion, nearly a thousand locals collaborate overnight to create intricate carpets and artworks made entirely of flower petals along the town's narrow streets. These ephemeral masterpieces, stretching over a mile, are crafted using petals collected from the wild, emphasizing authenticity and tradition.

The event culminates in a procession, where the Blessed Sacrament is carried over these floral tapestries, blending religious reverence with artistic expression.

What to See in Spello

Spello is like a rare book to be read slowly, page by page, with an eye for beauty and a sense of wonder.

Walking through this charming hill town feels like a journey through centuries of history: from the ancient Umbrian people and Romans to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. As you make your way from the southern district of Borgo up to the Porta dell’Arce, also known as the Belvedere, you visually retrace the town’s rich past. Roman gates, medieval towers, Renaissance chapels, and blooming alleyways all combine in a tapestry of architecture, devotion, and art. 

Every street in Spello is a discovery, from Via Porta Chiusa and Via San Ercolano to Via Borgo della Fortezza, where the spirit of Umbria and the timeless beauty of Italy come alive.

Here are some of the must-see highlights along this unforgettable path:

  • Porta Consolare
    The ancient Roman gateway that served as the main entrance to the town during the Roman period. It features three arches and is topped by three Republican-era statues. A medieval tower beside it holds a symbolic olive tree — a tribute to Spello’s most iconic products: Umbrian extra virgin Olive Oil and olive-wood craft creations.
  • Santa Maria Maggiore Church
    This is Spello’s main church, with origins dating back to the 11th century. Inside is the stunning Baglioni Chapel, painted by Pinturicchio in 1501 with vibrant Renaissance frescoes including the Annunciation, the Nativity, and an extraordinary self-portrait. The church also houses works by Perugino and has a beautiful maiolica floor from the near town of Deruta.
  • Cappella Tega
    A small, vaulted chapel off Via Consolare featuring a powerful 15th-century Crucifixion fresco by Niccolò Alunno.
  • Sant’Andrea Church
    A Romanesque church with a twisted arch portal, 14th-century altar, and frescoes. Inside you'll find a painting of the Madonna and Child with Saints, also by Pinturicchio and his workshop (1508).
  • Piazza della Repubblica
    The civic heart of Spello, featuring the 13th-century Town Hall, the 16th-century fountain of Pope Julius III, and the remains of the Baglioni fortress turned Renaissance residence.
  • Collegiata di San Lorenzo
    Spello’s second main church, rebuilt in the 16th century. Notable for its elegant 18th-century chapel and finely inlaid 16th-century choir.
  • Via Giulia & the Terziere Posterula
    The northern section of Spello, filled with narrow lanes, panoramic views, and charming corners like Borgo del Teatro and Via Fontanello. Key sites include the Oratory of San Biagio and the Clarisse Convent (1320).
  • Porta Venere and the Properzio Towers
    A monumental Roman gate from the Augustan era with three arches and flanked by two medieval towers. Despite the name, the towers were likely built in the 12th century rather than in Propertius' Roman time.
  • Roman Amphitheatre & San Claudio Church
    Just outside the ancient walls, you’ll find the remains of a 1st-century Roman amphitheatre and the sober, spiritual Romanesque church of San Claudio — a fine example of Franciscan architectural simplicity.
  • Villa of Mosaics
    A remarkable archaeological site featuring extensive Roman mosaic floors, recently excavated and now part of a modern museum experience.

Where to Stay in Spello

Spello offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences:

How to Get to Spello

From Perugia Airport (PEG)

  • By public transport and Train: Take the Umbria Airlink bus from the airport to to Assisi's train station, then board a train to Spello. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs between €14 and €19.
  • By Private Transfer: Pre-booked taxis or minivans offer direct transfers from the airport to Spello, providing convenience, especially for groups or those with luggage. By car, from Perugia airport, it takes around 20 minutes to get to Spello.

From Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)

  • By Train: From Fiumicino Aeroporto, take a train to Roma Termini, then transfer to a train bound for Spello via Foligno. The total journey takes around 3 hours and 43 minutes.
  • By Bus: FlixBus operates daily services from Fiumicino Aeroporto T3 to Foligno. From Foligno, a short taxi or local train ride will bring you to Spello in 10 minutes.
  • By Car: Driving from Rome to Spello covers approximately 158 km and takes about 2 hours, offering flexibility to explore the Umbrian countryside en route.

Continue your Journey with Casa Umbra

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