Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Umbria, Parrano emerges as a village steeped in history, a jewel that gradually reveals itself through its medieval alleys and ancient stone walls. It is the perfect destination for a leisurely stay, combining history with dreamlike landscapes, not to mention the incredible thermal waters!
Discovering Parrano: A Journey Through History, Art, and Nature
Parrano’s roots stretch back to ancient times, but it is in the Middle Ages that this village begins to shape its identity. Today, it stands as a captivating treasure trove of art and culture, where medieval stones narrate centuries-old stories. The castle, surrounded by mighty walls and dominated by a watchtower, is the pulsating heart of Parrano, a tangible testament to its glorious past. Strolling through the alleys of this small village, admiring stone walls and balconies adorned with flowers, feels like a journey through time – it’s hard not to fall in love with this ancient and secretive atmosphere. But Parrano’s charm extends beyond its walls; in fact, it is perhaps the pristine nature surrounding it that captivates visitors the most.
The Devil’s Dens in Parrano
At the foot of the hill where the small village of Parrano stands, lie the enigmatic Devil’s Dens. These karst caves, carved by the Fosso del Bagno, are an archaeological treasure that takes us straight back to the Paleolithic and the Bronze Age.
Only partially explored by archaeologists, the Devil’s Dens hide mysteries linked to ancient ritual cults. Artifacts such as broken animal bones, wheat seeds, legumes, and beans bear witness to the unknown ceremonies that took place within. Some caves even reveal human remains, adding an aura of mystery to this fascinating place.
Of the eight caves opening along the Fosso del Bagno, only three have been explored by archaeologists: the Lower Main Den, the Upper Main Den, and the Beech Den, which reveal their history through natural stone arches and are still visitable accompanied by an expert guide. The artifacts found in these incredible karst caves, including a Greek kylix, are now exhibited in the National Archaeological Museum of Perugia and the Territorial Documentation Center of Parrano, shedding light on a millenary history unfolding among the rocks and hidden crevices of the Devil’s Dens.
Parrano’s Thermal Waters
At the beginning of the gorge that gives rise to the caves, there is a thermal water lake, ideal for a refreshing swim after exploring the caves! The Bagno stream has been known since antiquity for the presence of thermal water springs and their therapeutic qualities.
Parrano’s thermal water, with its bicarbonate alkaline earthy hypothermal qualities, is a natural treasure. Currently, with a temperature of 30 °C, it is one of the most interesting carbonate complexes in Umbria. In such a rare and beautiful natural setting, Parrano reveals itself as an authentic “Wellness Village.” The warm and pure water, the mysterious caves, and the relaxing atmosphere of the Thermal Park make this Umbrian destination a must-visit for those seeking a rejuvenating escape and a wellness experience in the heart of Italy.
Local Flavors
The gastronomy of Parrano is a genuine celebration of the fertile hills that surround and provide the village with a wealth of unique ingredients. Wheat and emmer, ancient cereals that were the preferred food of the Etruscans, are among the culinary gems of the region. Extra virgin olive oil, produced from the lush local olive groves, imparts a rich and genuine flavor to dishes. Saffron, with its enveloping fragrance, adds a touch of elegance to traditional recipes. Parrano is also known for its festivals, where authentic dishes can be savored along with renowned Umbrian wines. Local festivities, such as the “Water Festival” and the “Air Festival,” add a cultural and traditional element to the gastronomic scene, highlighting the importance of natural elements in community life. During the summer, the historical reenactment “Medieval Parrano” transports visitors back in time with medieval dinners, markets, and costume performances.
Exploring the Surroundings of Parrano
Parrano is also the perfect starting point for exploring the surroundings of Umbria. The region offers a variety of charming destinations, from art cities like Perugia and Assisi to picturesque villages like Orvieto and Todi.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Sibillini Mountains or take a walk in the Monte Peglia Regional Park, immersing themselves in breathtaking landscapes and discovering the rich biodiversity of Umbria.
Where to Stay for a Special and Green Stay
For a stay in Parrano that aligns with the beauty of the surrounding nature, I Suoni della Natura is undoubtedly the best choice. The four accommodations offered provide comfort and authenticity, but the structure stands out above all for its commitment to environmental sustainability. The building has solar systems that make it 100% self-sufficient, they use a 120-meter-deep well for water. The olive trees, fruit trees, and the entire garden are organic. The soaps and shower products in the studios are biodegradable, as well as the cleaning products and detergents for studio maintenance. There is also an electric vehicle charging station available.
The facility allows its guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Parrano Valley without leaving a negative impact on the environment. Choosing sustainable accommodation will not only contribute to preserving the natural beauty of the area but will also provide a more conscious and fulfilling travel experience.
