Gubbio is 30 minutes drive to the east of Villa Bastiola and is well worth a day trip. Steeped in history, this Umbrian town is incredibly old and you can see signs of its Umbri, Roman and medieval history as you walk through the town.

Called Ikuvium, it was home to the ancient Umbri (around the time of the Etruscans in Tuscany) and the ancient Eugubine bronze tablets (the only surviving example of ancient Umbrian text) can be seen in Palazzo dei Consoli on the main square.

 

Conquered by the Romans, the town became known as Iguvium (where today’s name of Gubbio originates) and was an incredibly important stop over point for Roman troops travelling across Italy from North to South and East to West. There is a fabulous Roman amphitheater still standing (the second largest in the world) at the foot of Monte Ingino which is worth a visit.

As with most of middle Italy, the medieval times were turbulent with the town falling under control of one mercenary and then another. A lot of the buildings still standing in Gubbio today date back to the middle ages and its worth wandering through the town just to get a feel of the architecture and history.

Take a trip to the top of Monte Ingino in the “cable car”! Hop into one of the giant dustbins and get whisked up to the top of the mountain – the views are breathtaking!!

Each year, the Gubbians celebrate their patron saint, St Ubaldo, in the race of the “Ceri”, 3 giant wooden candlesticks, which are carried by teams from each terziere (quarter) of the town in a race to the top of the mountain and in to the Basilica of St Ubaldo. It’s an incredible event and if you are lucky enough to be visiting Gubbio on 15th May, be prepared for fun!!

Stay at Villa Bastiola and take a day trip out to Gubbio with its amazing history and wonderful eating places!