Our idea of Rome as a papal city par excellence was not in the past so obvious, and not only because of the long exile in France known as the “Avignon Captivity.”
Both the person of the pope and his exceptional retinue used to move frequently. In the late medieval period, these movements occurred to escape the summer heat or for purely political reasons.
Our Perugia, a Guelph center of primary importance, adapted its image to that of a heavenly city, apt to receive the honor and burden of the presence of pontiffs.
Popes of the stature of Urban IV, Innocent III, Clement V and Benedict XI were present in the city, attracting artists such as the Pisano, Arnolfo di Cambio and Duccio di Buoninsegna. Of Benedict XI remains the splendid sepulcher of the school of Arnolfo di Cambio in San Domenico.
Harmony and elegance, associated with a mighty monumentality, still characterize Perugia, its palaces, squares and churches.
A walk through the center allows history to take shape in the spaces that were its royal theater. Well-known episodes include the conclave for the election of Pope Celestine V and the death of Benedict XI, said to have occurred from figs poisoned with the deadly “acquetta di Perugia.”
The itinerary seeks the splendors of the city of the Popes among the churches, museums and squares of a center with a great historical and artistic heritage.
To arrange a thematic tour within the city of Perugia, contact us through the website.