Umbria News

Umbria News by Porta Perugia: Hidden treasures, 'Made in Umbria', favorite places, walks, history, theatre, concerts, art, and more.

Perugino Collegio del Cambio. Events in Umbria. Porta Perugia

Ester Andrina - 22 September 2024

A Hidden Treasure in the Heart of Perugia

If you are in the centre of Perugia, be sure not to walk past the door on the left in the photo, on Corso Vannucci 25D. Here is the ancient seat of the Money Changers' Guild, the Nobile Collegio del Cambio, with magnificent frescoes by the painter Perugino. Even in his own time, the decorations were considered to be among Perugino's best works. A small but important museum in the heart of Perugia.

Website of the Museum

Ester Andrina - 6 September 2024

The Magical Voice of Cherrynia Vanderpuye, Student in Perugia

What better place to study the Bel Canto technique than Italy, the birthplace of opera

Just off Corso Vannucci in the historic centre of Perugia lies the Morlacchi Conservatory, one of Italy's oldest and most prestigious music institutes. I used to live nearby and occasionally attended concerts in its auditorium. This is how I came to know soprano Cherrynia Vanderpuye, who left an unforgettable impression with her amazing voice. How could this fragile young woman produce such a powerful sound? I decided to ask her.

Ester Andrina - 11 August 2024

Teatro Morlacchi: A Magnificent Italian Theatre in Perugia

On the 10th of October 2024, Teatro Morlacchi will host a piano recital by the talented Italian pianist Beatrice Rana, a perfect opportunity to see this newly restored theatre in all its glory, one of my favourite places for an evening out in the centre of Perugia.

Paintings, gold decorations, crystal chandeliers and the many small boxes, each with its own entrance, make a concert here a unique experience. A place where the Perugini meet and socialise before the beginning of the show.

Ester Andrina - 20 July 2024

The 'Made in Umbria' Pure Cashmere by Ileana: Every Stola is Unique!

When I first met Ileana and she showed me her beautiful colourful shawls, I immediately fell in love. No two scarves are the same, they are incredibly soft and come in a range of vibrant colours.

Ileana, who has a background in fashion design, says: "If you look at green in nature, it is not just one colour, but thousands of different shades of green. All my designs are inspired by the colours of the natural gardens in Umbria".

I am proud that Ileana has given PortaPerugia the opportunity to sell her beautiful shawls.

Continue reading Go to Shop

Ester Andrina - 23 June 2024

Join a Sagra and Celebrate the Summer with the Umbrians

At this time of year, Umbria is buzzing with 'sagre' (village festivals) celebrating the summer, the harvest, or a local saint. Taking part in one is a fantastic way to get to know the area and enjoy an authentic Italian experience. A sagra is usually served at long tables, with excellent local wine and live music for dancing.

The menu features regional specialities, and some dishes are still based on ancient traditions. Like the 'Sagra delle Fregnaccia' in Otricoli. After the hard work of harvesting, the community would eat a simple but nutritious toasted bread called 'fregnaccia'. There was no time to spend long in the kitchen, since all hands were needed to bring in the harvest.

Joining a Sagra is a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with village life. If you want to give it a try, click here for a list of events including upcoming sagre

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