Gubbio district - The territory

The territory
The Alto Chiascio district is one of the most considerable realities of Umbria - the "green heart of Italy", according to a famous slogan - where history, art, culture and nature converge forming a very fruitful synthesis.
Charming art towns of medieval origin, important folk manifestations, the uncontaminated environment, the various handicrafts, which still are a living tradition and a value intrinsic to these people: an expression of their artistic skills and an exaltation of the creative work of the individual (we can mention the famous Mastro Giorgio). Gubbio, the most important centre in this area, is a real masterpiece of the medieval civilization: an artistic gem which has maintained its original and extraordinary aspect. Known throughout the world are its folk-historical events, the Race of the Candles and the Crossbow Contest.
Moreover, cultural manifestations of an international scale, amongst which the Classic Performances at the Roman Theatre.
Not to be missed the artistic lighting drawing an enormous Christmas tree on the slopes of Mount Ingino (7 December - 10 January).
Another interesting town is Gualdo Tadino, famous for its production of artistic ceramics, its mineral water and its pleasant surroundings - first of all the Valsorda.
Considerable the historic patrimony, important the cultural events (not to be missed the Ceramics International Competition) and folk festivals such as "Pioppo di San Pellegrino" (30 April), "La Notte del Fuoco di Grello" (23 June) and i "Giochi de le Porte" (last week of September).
In this area there is also the splendid Mount Cucco, one of the most interesting sights in Umbria.
Waiting to be discovered the small but charming towns set in the Appennini Mounts, on the border of Umbria with Marche: Scheggia and Pascelupo, Sigillo, Costacciaro, Fossato di Vico and Valfabbrica, picturesque places characterized by magnificent landscape and enjoyable climate, ancient centres which have maintained their original feature and identity.