Orvieto

We left Naples on Saturday, April 12, and decided to spend the night in Orvieto, which turned out to be a delightful surprise.  Rick Steves had it right!  Patrick booked us rooms at Hotel Orvieto, and we went to the old town up on the hill that evening.  One of the most beautiful Duomos I have ever seen from the outside sits on the hill. A concert had been held in the church, people were coming out, and a television crew was inside, so I did not go in. Clouds gathered and a light rain began to fall around 7:15, so our photos may not capture the radiance or opulence of the exterior.
From Rick Steves: ...the four marble pillars carved with biblical scenes tell the history of the world....Each pillar is topped by a bronze symbol of one of the Evangelists: angel (Matthew), lion (Mark), eagle (John), and  ox (Luke).  The bronze doors [with large angel handles] are modern.

Orvieto is known for its ceramics. We shopped a little before the stores closed, but all I bought was a ceramic magnet with the Duomo on it.  We thought we might be back tomorrow, but we didn't have time.  We had the best meal at an out-of-the-way cafe.

 Benjamin in front of Hotel Orvieto

 

David and Benjamin

I like this sign because it has the Duomo and the city on it.

We came upon the Duomo from the side - not very impressive

When we reached the front, we were awed.

The gold mosaic made the exterior glow..

Metal doors with angels for handles

The ox for Luke

The lion for Mark

Detail from facade: Adam, Eve, serpent

Scenes from the Bible

Patrick and Cynthia went inside as the concertgoers were leaving.

Beautiful interior

 

Across from the Duomo

One of the ceramic shops

Tavola Calda where we had the BEST meal

They say this is the finest pizza they have eaten! 

Sunday morning, April 13
 

What a view from the road to Orvieto!

Heading back to Vicenza