Known as the green heart of Italy, Umbria is famous for its spiritual past. Here you will find the places most sacred to St. Francis, from the much-visited cathedral in Assisi to the tranquility of his hermitage on Mt. Subasio above. In the summer, Umbria is famous for its festivals. Umbria Jazz in Perugia, is a city also famous for the Eurochocolate show in October. The Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto and the lesser known Todi Art Festival, take place in Umbria. Attractions: The cities of Orvieto, Perugia, Spoleto, Todi, Assisi and Gubbio are all worth a visit. The smaller town of DeRuta is famous for ceramics of every kind. Spend a relaxing day at Lake Trasimeno, or enjoy trekking above Lake Corbara, formed by the damming of the Tiber. Norcineria, the Italian name for salamis of various types comes from Norcia, in Umbria. The famous Sagrantino di Montefalco is said to have come from a grape preserved by monks and the white wine of Orvieto has been known since Etruscan times. Not as expensive as white truffles, black truffles are not to be missed and make an especially good omelet and a typical Umbrian antipasto.

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Falchetto (Perugia). Catch a jazz concert during the summer, or dine in the historic 14th century dining room any time.

Medio Evo (Asisi). Dine on traditional Umbrian cuisine under vaulted ceilings without worrying if it's OK to bring the kids.

Tartufo (Spoleto). One of many fine restaurants in Spoleto, Tartufo is known for its truffle-inspired dishes, as well as many other traditional Umbrian classics.

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Festival di Spoleto. This two-week festival, also known as the Festival dei Due Mondi (festival of two worlds), runs from the end of June through early July. Theatrical, dance and musical performances are held at various venues throughout town.

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Basilica di San Francesco (Assisi). Two churches make up this ancient structure, built to house St. Francis, Italy's patron saint. Earthquakes damaged the basilica in 1997, but many of its frescoes have been repaired and restored.

Palazzo dei Priori (Perugia). In addition to many frescoed rooms, this gothic masterpiece houses the famous Collegio del Cambio and the Galleria Nazionale dell' Umbria.

Don't forget the card (Perugia). The Perugia Citta Museo card comes in one-day and three-day versions and is a real bargain if you plan to visit at least two or more of the city's museums or monuments.

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Perugina Chocolate Factory (Perugia). Take a free tour of this world-famous manufacturer of Baci 'kisses'.

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