The city’s greatest identifying symbol is Palazzo Trinci, named after the family that ruled the city from 1305 to 1439, currently home to the Civic Museum, Art Gallery and Joust Museum. The building houses a cycle of 15th century frescos that were recently confirmed as the work of Gentile da Fabriano, major representative of international Gothic painting. The building looks out onto Piazza della Repubblica, bordered by the wing that opens up onto the Cathedral of San Feliciano, the Municipal Hall and the Palazzetto del Podestà. Be sure to visit the Nunziatella Oratory with its fresco by Perugino, the ancient church of Santa Maria Infraportas and the San Domenico complex, known today as the Auditorium, which preserves some of Foligno’s most important frescos from the 14th and 15th century.
EAT & DRINK
Villa Roncalli
Viale Roma, 25 – tel. 0742 391091 – closed on Monday, open only for dinner
Luisa Scolastra, the owner, is in my opinion the best chef in Umbria. Everything here is homemade and all ingredients come from Luisa’s vegetable garden. Villa Roncalli is also a hotel with a large garden and swimming pool. If you’d like to go there for a swim and/or meal please let me know and I will contact Luisa in advance.
Cucinaa
Viale Firenze, 138/a – tel. 0742 22035 – open from 8am to 9pm daily
Recently opened by three renowned Italian chefs, Cucinaa is restaurant, selected foods shop, luxury take away. I love to come here for breakfast and lunch. You will also find a large selection of Italian cheese and bread, as well as Italian and French wines, artisan beer, pasta, olive oil and much more.
Umami
Piazza Garibaldi
If you don’t have time for a full Italian lunch, pop into this friendly bar. Paninis, fresh juices, gelato and a glass of wine or beer. This place draws a young crowd.
Where to shop
Duemme
Corso Cavour, 116
The best shoe store in town. Mariangela, the owner, is very well known for her wide choice of shoes for women and men. She also sells beautiful handbags and leather clothes. Prada, D&G, Car Shoe, Miu Miu, and more.
Francesca Greco
Via Rutili, 14
This talented young woman has a beautiful shop filled with her artwork: paintings, books, T-shirts, key holders, painted wooden boxes, and much more. Wander inside and you are bound to find something unique.
Marina B
Piazza San Francesco, 7 – women wear – home & garden
Marina’s shop is my favourite! I love her choice of linen dresses, pants and her selection of scarves. Easy-going and inexpensive. In Marina’s shop you will also find a beautiful collection of antiques, chandeliers, ceramics, furniture and accessories for house and garden.
Mario Salvucci
Via Mameli, 109 – tel. 0742 22606 – by appointment only
Mario is a lamp designer who also creates wonderful jewellery. After living and working for many years in New York, he returned to Italy and created the Progetto Lanterne lighting collection.