Pianello
Pianello: the story of an Umbrian village
If you're looking for a place steeped in history and the beauty of the Umbrian countryside, Pianello could be the perfect destination for you. This Perugia village, with its just over one thousand inhabitants, is a place with ancient and mysterious charm, where traces of history merge with the natural beauty of the territory.
The history
The history of Pianello dates back to the ancient Umbrian-Etruscan cities, among which stood Arna, which rose on the hills overlooking the plain of the Chiascio River. The name of the castle, which once protected the surrounding territory, was Castrum Arnae, in honor of the river that flowed nearby.
Over the centuries, the town was the subject of disputes between different cities, including Perugia and Assisi. In the 14th century, two villages were founded downstream, one of which, Villa Pianelli, became the present center of Pianello. Here was also the parish church of S. Valentino, then S. Biagio, which was one of the most important places of worship in the area.
Between the 15th and 16th centuries, Pianello was often the subject of attacks by neighboring armies. In 1578, the Knights of Malta unlawfully appropriated the church of the castle, but the situation was later resolved thanks to the intervention of Pope Gregory XIII.
The beauty of the territory
Despite its historical vicissitudes, Pianello is today a place of great beauty, thanks to its location in the middle of the Umbrian countryside and the presence of the Chiascio River. The area around the village offers many opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor activities, such as horse riding, mountain biking and water sports.
In addition, the village is close to other Umbrian locations of great tourist interest, such as Perugia, Assisi, Gubbio and Lake Trasimeno. Staying in Pianello can therefore be an excellent base for exploring the region and discovering all its wonders.
What to see in Pianello
For history and culture enthusiasts, Pianello offers many opportunities to discover its treasures. Among the places of interest, the following are worth mentioning:
The church of S. Biagio, built by the first inhabitants of the village in the 13th century and renovated over the centuries. Inside, you can admire frescoes and works of great value.
The castle of Pianello, which stood on the hill above the village and is now reduced to a few ruins. However, it is still possible to see some of its walls and some towers.
The parish church of S. Valentino, located near the hamlet of Villa Caimani. This religious building dates back to the 12th century and still preserves many of the original elements, such as the Romanesque portal.
The Chiascio River, which flows along the borders of Pianello and offers a charming landscape. Along its banks, you can walk or have a picnic, enjoying the freshness of the place.
In conclusion, Pianello is a place that enchants for its beauty and its millennia-long history. If you want to discover all its treasures, all you have to do is book your stay and set out to explore this wonderful Umbrian village.
