The city of the Fortebracci family
Situated in the northern part of Umbria, Montone appears to lie on top of two hills overlooking the Upper Tiber Valley.
The first document that mentions the town dates back to the year 1121. Over the course of the next two centuries it was subjected to the rule of Perugia. The history of Montone is essentially linked to the Fortebracci family, particularly to Andrea Fortebracci, more commonly known as "Braccio". The latter was a famous mercenary captain born in 1368 who founded his own state with Perugia as its capital.
The town’s most important architectural complex is the Gothic church of San Francesco, dating back to the early fourteenth century. The oldest church in Montone (11th century) is the Romanesque Parish of San Gregorio.
Montone’s charm can be attributed to its hilltop position embraced by a wall, its urban buildings, the narrow streets that wind through its interior, its charming views and stone houses. The silence and tranquillity of the town are two of its greatest assets, making it the ideal place for rest and relaxation.
Montone’s most important events are concentrated between the summer season and early autumn. Preceded by a week of festivities in which visitors can witness tournaments, serenades, bow and arrow competitions and other games, the Historic Re-enactment of the Donation of the Sacred Thorn takes place on the Sunday after Ferragosto (Italian holiday celebrated on August 15th).