Penna In Teverina: Medieval Heritage, Nature and Festivals

Penna in Teverina lies at the top of a hill overlooking the Tiber Valley.

La Solfatara and the climb to Penna

La Solfatara is a geological phenomenon. Carbon dioxide rising from underground forms pools of water and clay in which the gas bubbles. This gives the landscape an unusual character that can be observed directly. A specific connection with cycling is Route 19: from kilometer 18 onward, it includes a 4.5-kilometer climb to Penna in Teverina. In this way, the route complements the town’s quieter nature and cultural themes.

Historic Center and Piazza San Valentino

The historic center has largely preserved its medieval urban layout, with remarkable elements dating from the 15th century. The Porta Civica leads into the historic village and to Piazza San Valentino, where the Church of Santa Maria della Neve stands. It has early medieval origins; its apse basin is decorated with the 17th-century painting “La Madonna della Neve e San Valentino.”

The Palazzo Orsini also brings together several visible reminders of the town’s history. The coats of arms of the Orsini and Anguillara families can still be seen there. In the 16th century, Maerbale Orsini chose the palace as his private residence. Nearby are four travertine benches topped with busts depicting a young woman, a boy, a man and an old man. Together, they are known as the “Panche delle Quattro Stagioni.” A small museum outside the walls, located on the steps leading to the viewpoint, conveys part of the town’s history associated with traditional arts and ancient crafts.

Paths, Park and Garden

The Cammino della Luce is part of a larger network of paths and routes through the Italian countryside. The La Solfatara area in Penna in Teverina is one of the stops along this route. For a stay with different daily rhythms, Parco di Penna in Teverina offers tables with benches, fire pits, barbecue areas and gazebos for shaded meals. There is also a children’s playground and a fitness trail. Access to the Giardino all'Italiana is free, no reservation is required, and the park is open to everyone.

Festivals with Regional Flavor

For more than 35 years, the Festa della Vendemmia has been held on the third weekend of September. The Madonna della Neve and Tortiglione festival days are on the calendar on August 5. They include the Sagra del Tortiglione, featuring tortiglione, an almond-based sweet from the Umbrian tradition with Lombard origins. Penna in Fiore also takes place in May, a horticultural and flower market established to promote the region’s horticultural tradition.

Other places to include in your travel plans are Montefranco, Morruzze, Casigliano, Canino, Calvi Dell Umbria, Fabro, Canale Nuovo and Collicello.

For the broader travel overview: Terni.