Visit Valfabbrica
Valfabbrica is a small town in north-east Umbria, near Perugia, on the “Franciscan Path of Peace" route that traces the journey of Saint Francis (1182-1226) when he abandoned his father's house in Assisi and took refuge in Gubbio.
Explore Valfabbrica
Exploring the old town of Valfabbrica, called "Pedicino," you will find the old medieval castle, which still has a tower which was once the ancient gate of the castle. A second tower was added at the end of the 19th century, and also a bell tower.
Inside the castle is the Church of San Sebastiano, rebuilt in the 16th century. This church holds a work of art of particular interest, the "Holy Family" by Benedetto Bandiera*.
Outside the castle is the church of Our Lady of ‘Foce’, built in the mid-17th century. The façade of the church is decorated with a rose window moulded in clay, and inside, above the altar, there is a painting of "Madonna and Child with Angels." Just along the main road is the parish church of “Santa Maria Assunta,” built in 1960 and characterized by polychrome glass windows.
Leaving the church and going to the cemetery in Valfabbrica you arrive at the old Benedictine Abbey of Santa Maria. Inside the abbey is a fresco by Cimabue’s School representing the "Lamentation over the Dead Christ." Near the apse, inside a niche supported by two medieval columns, there is the “Majesty between Saints and Angels”, a work dating back to 14th century.
Casa Castalda
The small village of Casa Castalda, a small village of Lombard origin, is also part of Valfabbrica. The old town of the village has a typical medieval layout with a series of narrow streets and alleys.
The church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Casa Castalda is very ancient, originally built before the year 1000 and the impressive tower is the highest point of the region. Inside the church there is a fine organ and a triptych by Matteo da Gualdo (1435-1507). You can find other works by Matteo da Gualdo in the Shrine of Our Lady of the “Olmo”, such as a fragmentary fresco depicting St. Anne with the Virgin Child.
Attractions near Valfabbrica
The whole area around Valfabbrica is scattered with small and quaint medieval villages, such as Giomici, with an ancient eleventh century castle; Poggio San Dionisio, on the top of a hill; and Collemincio, dating from the late tenth century.
In this land rich in historical and cultural traditions, there is also plenty to enjoy for lovers of nature, walking in a landscape still untouched and unspoiled in many respects, and offering genuine local products of high quality such as truffles, cheeses, homemade sausages and wines.
* For artist details see notes about Italian painters. See also history of Valfabbrica. Note: photo is copyright
You can find more local travel ideas in the Umbria guide.
Map of Valfabbrica and places to visit
Valfabbrica places to visit
Assisi
The birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi is best known for its basilica dedicated to the saint
Assisi guide
Bastia Umbra
In Bastia Umbra old town you can see impressive churches and artworks, among other historic highlights
Bastia Umbra guide
Nocera Umbra
The cathedral, art museum, and streets around Piazza Caprera are the highlight of a visit to Nocera Umbra
Nocera Umbra guide
Valtopina
The region around Valtopina contains numerous ancient villages and churches typical of the region
Valtopina guide
Gualdo Tadino
The fortress and castle museum are the principal attraction in the small town of Gualdo Tadino
Gualdo Tadino guide
Perugia
The important art gallery and the many historic buildings combine to make Perugia a highlight of your visit
Perugia guide...or see all our recommended places to visit in Umbria
