Italy, Day 7 through 11, Umbria and Orvieto, Cathedral
There are probably hundreds of wonderful medium size towns where
you could rent a flat for a few months and enjoy the riches of Italian culture, but for me, I'd choose Orvieto. You can turn down a street and be in medieval times, or ride down the mountain on a cable car and be in modern times. It has good access to the autostrada and enjoys public transportation. You could take the train to other towns for alternate cultures and experiences. At our wonderful 19th c. hotel, there was a group of art students from SMU finishing up a month's study. In addition to a wonderful farmers' market, there are small deli's and groceries with modern products. And the art and restaurants! Oh, my. Fabulous.
The Cathedral of Orvieto was built beginning in 1290 on the foundation of an older cathedral which was built on an Etruscan temple. It developed over a period of centuries, so although it was begun as Romanesque, it became Gothic and numerous architects, sculptors and artists worked on it over the years in marble, stone, glass, mosaic, and bronze. The window is attributed to Orcagna (Andrea de Cione). The four piers around the doors depict Biblical stories, beginning with the creation, moving to Messianic prophecy, then Christ's life, then finally the last judgment and Hell. Quite vivid, I might add. Glass panels have been added to protect the art from vandalism.
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