Views from the medieval belltower, in Todi

I recently spent a lovely day in Todi, a picture-perfect medieval hill town in Italy’s region of Umbria.

I have been numerous times, but it’s always fun to get back.

On this visit, I climbed the San Fortunato belltower to enjoy stunning views from the top.

And what a view it was!

This is the high point of town, with a spire you can see from below in the valley. Construction on the Gothic cathedral began in 1292, on the foundations of an earlier church constructed in 1198, and continued on to 1463. Construction even went forward when Todi fell victim to the Plague in the mid-fourteenth century.

The more belltowers I climb, the more respect I develop for medieval bellringers. Quasimodo, you’re my hero!

As you can see from the photo below, this was a “fun” hike up … luckily, right after lunch, so I could work off some of that pasta.

It felt like a loooong hike up.

My efforts were more than rewarded once I reached the top.

The day started out a bit grey, but by my afternoon climb, the skies had cleared, the temperatures rose, and I had gorgeous 360 degree views over the town and the rolling hills of Umbria.

It was just perfect, enjoying these views pretty much to myself. Other tourists came up only as I was getting ready to make the (much easier) descent.

Such a beautiful vantage point to admire this picturesque town. I loved my lofty viewing perch.

So excited to be writing a sequel to my Three Coins – set in beautiful Todi. An obvious (and transparent) excuse for more site research!