What to see in Montefalco: Umbria's wine capital

Montefalco is nicknamed the 'balcony of Umbria' for the extraordinary views it offers over the Umbrian Valley. Perched on a hill about 20 km from Spello and Agriturismo Il Barco, it is one of the richest destinations for art and flavour in the entire region.

The Museum of San Francesco and Gozzoli's frescoes

The church of San Francesco, now a museum, houses Benozzo Gozzoli's masterpiece: a cycle of frescoes illustrating the life of Saint Francis, painted between 1450 and 1452. It is one of the most spectacular examples of the Umbrian Renaissance. Works by Perugino and other masters are also on display. Admission is charged but worth every penny.

The Torre Comunale and the panorama

At the centre of Piazza del Comune stands the medieval Torre Comunale, accessible via a short climb. From the top, a panorama extends across Spello, Foligno, Trevi, Spoleto and, on clear days, as far as the Apennines. There is no finer view over the Umbrian Valley.

Sagrantino di Montefalco wine

Montefalco is the home of Sagrantino, Italy's most tannic wine and one of the world's most long-lived. Sagrantino DOCG is produced only in five municipalities around Montefalco, from indigenous grapes cultivated in this territory for centuries. The most important estates — Arnaldo Caprai, Tenuta Castelbuono, Scacciadiavoli — offer visits and tastings. Don't miss the Montefalco Rosso DOC and the sweet, complex Sagrantino Passito.

The historic centre

The village is surrounded by perfectly preserved medieval walls with five entrance gates. Piazza del Comune, with its fifteenth-century loggia and town hall, is the heart of local life. Along the village streets you'll find small wine bars, local produce shops and excellent restaurants — lamb with Sagrantino and roast pigeon are the emblematic dishes.

How to reach Montefalco from Il Barco

From Agriturismo Il Barco, Montefalco is about 20 minutes by car (15 km via Foligno). There is no rail connection, so a car is essential. We recommend combining the visit with Bevagna or Trevi for a full day exploring the wines of Umbria.