Acquasparta

This Umbria town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and has a lived-in feel. It has deep Roman roots, drawn here by its position along the Via Flaminia as well as its thermal waters. In fact, Acquasparta's name comes from this - "among the waters". Today you can still relaxing a soothing hot soak at one of the spas.

It has a nice setting, near Spoleto, Todi, Narni and Deruta. The Romans left a whole host of heritage behind - including the interesting Ponte Fonnaia, an arched bridge built by Caesar Augustus. Later, in the 1300s, the Church of San Giovanni de Butris was built on it. The time-worn church sits in the countryside among sunflower fields, with the tops of the ancient arches peeking out of the ground. It was once used by the Knights of Malta. Today, it's a lovely spot for a walk along the country lanes.

In town, the church of the Holy Sacrament was built only a few centuries ago but retains Roman mosaic floors inside. The loggia next to Palazzo Cesi has a Roman foundation downstairs, and the Palazzo hosts a museum with ancient artifacts from the town. There are also frescoes by Zuccari in Palazzo Cesi. The Cesi ruled Acquasparta from Renaissance times until the 1800s.

The town is pleasant to stroll around, enjoy the old atmosphere and cafes. Parts of the protective walls that once completely encircled it are still intact, along with some of the solid, circular towers that helped in its defense. They throw a big party every year for Carnevale, and a refined Renaissance festival with period games, music and banquets. The surrounding area still retains some 'wildness' to it, perfect for outdoors activities and hikes in the hills.