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Nearby, sitting in a lovely valley and more than 300 metres above sea level, is the town of Lisciano Niccone, rich in history and mediaeval traditions. In fact, the area dates back to the Etruscans (the fortified village of Bellona atop Mount Murlo bears witness to their occupation) with the Romans coming later.
The valley was reclaimed from the marshes by the monks who lived of the Abbey of St Benedetto. Sacked by Attila the Hun, the valley became important again during the Byzantine era. With its strategic position, it became an economic axis between Rome and Ravenna. This valley was a wide, fortified corridor. The huge castles in Lisciano and around were the defensive line of the territory. In 1202, the Castle of Lisciano Niccone, controlled by the Marquis del Monte, demanded protection from Perugia. Ruled by the Casali family from Cortona, it then became part of the Papal States, and in 1861 it was annexed to the new-born kingdom of Italy.
Among the numerous places of interest to visit, check out the Castle of Lisciano, which rises atop a hill right in front of the town. The nearby castles of Reschio and Sorbello complete the medieval scenario. Among the religious buildings are the churches of St Tommaso, of St Maria delle Corti and of Val di Rose. If you follow the road to Tuoro, you will enjoy a wonderful view of Lake Trasimeno. A little further there is the town of Borghetto, where the tremendous battle between Hannibal and the Romans took place.
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And nearby lies the old city of Cortona. This lovely town is one of the twelve that made up the Etruscan Federation. Spectacularly located high on a hill above the Valdichiana, it has spectacular views towards Lake Trasimeno, Monte Amiata and Castiglione Fiorentino. Long a centre of art it is still noted for its architecture and museums, most notably the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca and the Duomo, and is packed with quaint shops, good restaurants and pretty streets.
Relaxing, unspoiled, and perfectly situated for exploring Tuscany and Umbria, this is a marvellous base for your vacation in Italy. Click below to find out more.
