Set on the steep slopes of Monte Serano, overlooking the olive groves and plains of the Clitunno River, the historic town of Trevi epitomizes Umbria. Come and bask in the charm of this idyllic little town surrounded by olive groves.
As you approach, you’ll see how the town wraps itself around the almost conical shaped hill on which it is situated. Park your car in the lot around Piazza Garibaldi, just to the east of the town’s ancient walls.
Trevi’s spiral of narrow streets retain much of their medieval character, with many monumental buildings, such as the Teatro Clitunno, Mura Medieval (Medieval Wall) and Mura Romana (Roman Wall), still standing strong. Another highlight is the Palazzo Comunale in Piazza Mazzini, the town’s main square.
Also, don’t miss the monumental Church of San Fransesco with its impressive frescoes. Part of this former church and convent complex is the Raccolta d’Arte di San Francesco art gallery with “ex‑voto” paintings, depicting the fulfillment of a vow or wish after an offerings was made to a saint or Madonna. While in the complex, make sure you drop in at the Museo della Civiltà dell’Ulivo (Olive Oil Museum). The town’s Olive Oil Festival is held every fall around harvest time.
Continue with your discovery of Trevi’s ancient structures. The centrally located 12th-century Church of Saint Emiliano looks modest from the outside but displays a large and impressive altar inside.
Just out of town is the Sanctuary of Madonna delle Lacrime. “Lacrime" means “tears” and inside the church you can view a painted Madonna, which was reportedly seen crying tears of blood in 1485.
Take in the architectural delights of the Palazzo Valenti and Palazzo Lucarini. Afterwards, watch the world go by in Piazza Garibaldi.
Located just 6 miles (10 kilometers) southeast of Foligno and 12 miles (20 kilometers) north of Spoleto, you don’t have to go out of your way to visit Trevi. Buses to and from Foligno run frequently.
Full of art, ancient architecture and ambiance, Trevi symbolizes the Umbrian way of life. Just like its olive oil, this town’s treasures deserve to be savored.
