Oil and wine
Paciano is surrounded by slopes carpeted with olive trees, and they are such an intrinsic aspect of life here that olive branches are featured on the town’s coat of arms. When pressed, the fruit grown here produces an oil remarkably free of acidity, widely used in local cuisine of course. Oil can be bought directly from producers.
Wine is also made in this area, and there is the chance to taste and buy local wines nearby at wineries around Panicale, Macchie and Panicarola.
Panicale
Also an official ‘most beautiful village of Italy’, nearby Panicale is another perfectly preserved medieval village, well worth a visit. Enclosed by ancient walls, connected by ten towers, its narrow streets spiral up to the highest point. Here, they open onto a small piazza with a panoramic viewpoint, overlooked by the impressive stone tower of the Palazzo del Podestà. There is more superb architecture to admire in the lower streets, and paintings and frescoes to discover in the Collegiata di San Michele Arcangelo and the Church of San Sebastiano.
The Caporali theatre is a key feature here too, originally built in the late 18th century but extended in the mid 1850s. At this time its wooden interior was redecorated in a rich and elegant style, creating a truly special atmosphere for performance. The theatre hosts a year round programme of plays, but also chamber music and opera events.
Panicale is also known for the handicraft of embroidery on tulle, popular here during the 19th century and revived in the 1930s. You can see many examples of this craft at the Tulle Museum within the Church of Sant’Agostino.
Family fun
Groups with youngsters will be glad of the water park nearby at Tavernelle, and a similar distance in the opposite direction lies Lake Trasimeno with a multitude of activities on offer. For example, water sports such as kayaking, sailing and boat hire. The more relaxing option of a cruise around the islands in the lake may appeal to many, or the land-based option of hiring bikes and following the cycle trail round the southern shoreline.
About 45 minutes away by car, on the outskirts of Perugia, the animal and amusement park ‘Città della Domenica’ will make a great day out for all ages, with a variety of animals as well as theme park rides and attractions, all in spacious parkland with nice views.
