Pianello
Welcome to Pianello: Let's discover the history of the village
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about a charming small village located in the east of Perugia, called Pianello. With its 1107 inhabitants, Pianello extends over a flat area at an altitude of 229 meters, along the Chiascio river.
But let's talk about the history of this magnificent place. The origins of Pianello date back to the ancient Umbrian-Etruscan city of Arna, dating back to the fifth century B.C. The original name was "Castrum Arnae," Castel d'Arno, because the word "arno" refers to the river.
The castle was first built around 40 B.C., after the siege of Perugia by Augustus (emperor). Many Perugians escaped the walls and settled in this area. Subsequently, in 1059, Pope Nicholas II gave the monks of S. Pietro di Perugia the faculty to collect tithes from the castle.
During the thirteenth century, Pianello was contested between Perugia and Assisi, while in the fourteenth century Villa Caimani and Villa Pianelli were founded, the latter becoming the center of today's Pianello. Also, towards the end of the century, it became a place of conflict between the exiled characters from Perugia and the Perugian troops themselves, who sought to reconquer it.
During the fifteenth century, the castle was depopulated in favor of the flat area of Villa Pianelli, but was repopulated after laws favoring its habitation were passed. In 1461, Pope Pius II stopped to rest in Pianello while traveling to Ancona with his entourage, and in 1486 the regent of Assisi, the Count of Sterpeto, assaulted and plundered Pianello.
The sixteenth century was characterized by the assaults of neighboring armies, such as that of the nearby Duchy of Urbino, and in 1578 the Knights of Malta unlawfully took possession of the church of the castle.
Curiosities of Pianello
But let's get to the curiosities of Pianello. Pianello is a small village but very active in socio-cultural life. In fact, every year, various events are organized, including the "Sagra della Crescia," where you can taste the delicacies of Umbrian cuisine. Not only that: the village is also famous for its sporting events, including the 5-a-side football tournament, the indoor football tournament and the dance tournament.
In addition, in Pianello there is a wonderful hilly landscape, with many paths that can be walked or cycled. You can admire many works of art including the Castle Tower, the church of S. Valentino and the church of S. Biagio. Another suggestive place is the Colfiorito nature reserve, which offers many opportunities for excursions and walks.
How to get there
If you have decided to visit Pianello and are wondering how to get there, I recommend taking the State Road 318 of Colfiorito and then following the signs for Pianello. You can also take bus no. 129 or bus no. 13, which will take you directly to Pianello.
Where to eat and sleep
In Pianello, there are several trattorias where you can taste traditional Umbrian cuisine, such as the Trattoria del Borgo and the Pizzeria del Borgo. If you want to stay in Pianello, I recommend the Hotel Villa Pianelli, a welcoming and family-run structure that offers spacious and comfortable rooms.
Conclusions
In short, Pianello is a real hidden gem of Umbria, with a millennial history and a unique atmosphere. If you are looking for a quiet place to spend a few days of relaxation, Pianello is definitely the place for you. I hope to have piqued your curiosity and to see you soon in Pianello!
