Deruta, Bevagna and Montefalco

Three towns which all have the 'I borghi più belli d' Italia' - most beautiful villages in Italy commendation are Deruta, Bevagna and Montefalco . We visited these three all on the same day ... a feast of gorgeousness.

Deruta has a beautifully preserved Centro Storico on the hill and a more modern town below. As stated yesterday, it is a town noted for its ceramics industry so there are many dozens of workshops and stores selling the quintessential central Italian majolica ceramics. Gigantic urns, platters and table tops catch you eye with their stunning designs and colour. Even the street signs and garden seats were made from ceramics.

Bevagna has the wow factor when you enter through the gate, as Panicale does. Lots of picturesque winding lanes, beautiful churches dating from 1100 with art works, Roman remains and a most beautiful piazza. I couldn't not mention three gelati shops with new flavours! 
Bevagna also has a St. Francis claim to fame - it was in Bevagna that the saint talked to the birds, and a stained glass window in one of the churches remembers this event. It also houses the Francis Stone but I don't actually know what that is about.

Montefalco is perched high on a hilltop and is known as the 'balcony of Umbria'. It is surrounded by vineyards so the magnificent views are enhanced by the green of the vines.
Incidentally, grape picking has commenced at some wineries, apparently the earliest ever. I guess the extremely hot summer has caused this. 
The Sagrantino grape and wine is central to life in Montefalco and the village has many shops selling the local wines and opportunities to taste. Kel was able to do a small wine tasting and he bought a Sagrantino for us to enjoy at home.