Gubbio
Gubbio: a municipality in the Umbrian hills
Gubbio is an Italian municipality located in the province of Perugia, in Umbria, with a population of just over 30,000 inhabitants. Located at the foot of Monte Ingino, the city is crossed by two streams: the Camignano and the Cavarello. The predominantly mountainous and hilly territory borders the province of Pesaro-Urbino in the Marche region to the northeast.
Physical geography
Territory
The territory of Gubbio is of considerable geological importance, and includes in part the Serra di Burano. In addition, just south-east of the town is the area of Monte Cucco, a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Climate
Gubbio has a typically continental climate, with cold and mild winters and hot and windy summers. Precipitation in the winter season can also be snowy.
History
The first settlements
The first settlement in Gubbio dates back to the Paleolithic period, while a Neolithic village was discovered in the San Marco area. During the Bronze Age, a village developed on Monte Ingino for several centuries, and the related tombs were located in the area subsequently occupied by the historic center of the city.
The Eugubine Tables
Gubbio was an important Umbrian city called "Ikuvium" or "Iguvium," positioned on the communication routes between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Adriatic Sea. In the 15th century, the Eugubine Tables were discovered, seven bronze tablets written in Umbrian and partly in Latin but always in the Umbrian language. The Tables are currently housed in the civic museum of the Palazzo dei Consoli.
The Roman period
Gubbio became part of the Roman Empire in 295 BC, and in 167 BC Genzio, the last king of Illyria, was kept there as a prisoner by the praetor Lucio Anicio Gallo. In 89 BC, Gubbio obtained Roman citizenship and was elevated to Municipium and attributed to the Clustumina tribe.
The Early Middle Ages
In 552, Gubbio was invaded by the Eruli and destroyed by the Goths of Totila. However, it was rebuilt by the Byzantine general Narses with two defensive towers at the foot of Monte Ingino. In the course of the 8th century, the city was involved in the expansion of various Lombard kings.
St. Francis in Gubbio
The city of Gubbio is closely linked to the history of St. Francis. Chapter XXI of the "Fioretti" recounts the event of St. Francis meeting the Wolf of Gubbio, which occurred near the church of Santa Maria della Vittoria, also known as "della Vittorina." Despite much debate over the historical accuracy of the event, many scholars believe that the wolf was actually present.
In conclusion, Gubbio is a city with a rich and interesting history, situated in an area of great natural beauty. Its strategic position and historical importance make it a unique place in the Italian panorama.
