Collicello: Medieval Walls, Churches and Hiking Trails

Collicello has largely preserved its medieval appearance, bringing together fortified structures, church art and trails through the woods around the town. For planning your trip, the hiking options of varying lengths, the history of its buildings and the local churches offer different points of interest.

Hiking and Directions

On the “AMELIA E I BOSCHI DELL’AMERINO” route, Collicello is at kilometre 10.6. Just before the arch and tower, turn left and continue uphill towards Frattuccia.

The Percorso Circolare di Collicello offers three hiking options: a short 5-kilometre route, a medium 7-kilometre route and a long 11-kilometre route. The circular trail passes through the woods around the town. The distances make it easy to compare the route lengths; check current trail conditions before setting out.

Another described trail starts in the upper part of Collicello and leads through the vegetation to the ruins of Rocca di Canale. As well as the circular trail, you can therefore consider a route whose destination is the ruins.

Fortifications and Local History

The town’s encircling wall is preserved in very good condition. Other features of its medieval appearance include an entrance gate with a rounded stone arch and eight defensive towers. One of the towers faces the ruined Castello di Canale. Construction of the castrum of Collicello dates back to 1295.

A defensive tower built in the 14th century stands northwest of Collicello, opposite Castello di Canale. Visible remains of the walls and part of a tower survive from the castle. The ruins of Castello di Canale and Collicello’s fortified walls are associated with the battles between the Guelphs and Ghibellines in Umbria.

Churches and Art

Centrally located in Collicello, the church of San Giovanni Evangelista preserves an old pipe organ. Its apse fresco depicts the Madonna and Child, the Archangel Michael and John the Evangelist, as well as a view of Collicello. Benedetto Cascianelli created the fresco in 1948, bringing religious subjects and a view of the town together.

Just outside Collicello stands the rural church of Madonna delle Grazie. Inside are large fresco panels dating to the first half of the 17th century, as well as numerous votive offerings attached to the walls. The feast in honour of Madonna delle Grazie is celebrated every year on 16 July. Check the current festival dates when planning your trip.

Traditions and Fava Cottòra

A still-visible grotto is located beside the Franciscan hermitage. According to tradition, Francis of Assisi sought time there for prayer and meditation. In the hamlet of Galisciano, there are also ruins of a Franciscan monastery called Speco di S. Francesco. According to tradition, Francis of Assisi stayed at the Speco.

A regional legume is another feature associated with Collicello: Fava Cottòra is recognised as a Slow Food Presidium. Eight producers grow Fava Cottòra; you can discover this legume in Collicello and Frattuccia. Alongside hiking and architectural history, local food culture offers another distinct focus for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Giove, Casteldelmonte, Ferentillo, Allerona, Cecalocco, Castel Dell'aquila, Schifanoia, Macchie.

Go to the main travel overview: Terni.