Orvieto has quickly become our favorite. Twice the size of Volterra, it has at least that much more to offer. It has a feel of a functioning city versus one designed only for tourist.

On our first day of sightseeing we walked the length of the city to our first monument of the day; St Patrick’s Well. Built in 1527 to supply water to the whole town, it is over 200’ deep. That equates to 248 steps down, and 247 steps up.

So after 495 spiral staircase steps , we again walked the half mile back to our apartment to have lunch. There were some nice views along the way.

On our afternoon walk we came across another attraction included on our Orvieto Pass; Torre Di Mauricio. We were soon to find out Torre is the Italian word for Tower. At the second floor the stairs began for the tower. Becky decided to let me have all the fun, so I went on without her. This time only 233 steps, and the views were much more rewarding.

If I had of looked up before we went in , we may have saved this for another day.

Now it was time for happy hour and our new ritual of people watching from our terrace as we enjoy a glass of the excellent local wines.

Sunday morning we attended mass at the Duomo with only about 50 people in attendance. Spectacular inside, and we will tour on Monday when the crowds have died down. Then on to steps of a different kind; Orvieto Underground. There are over 400 caves below the city, some natural and some built for various purposes.

Not as many, but much more challenging steps. Back at the apartment we prepared for happy hour once again and had the good fortune of having entertainment provided be a street parade.

Another dinner at a street cafe as we ready for two more days of relaxing and enjoying what Orvieto brings our way.