The Valnerina is a narrow valley, bordered by narrow gorges, with alternating hills and rocky cliffs through which the Nera, Velino and Tiber rivers flow. In this vast territory is to be found the Park of the Sibillini Mountains, an important environmental area that includes the Plain of Castelluccio, paradise of hang gliders and trekkers.

In this ancient land of great traditions and superb scenery you can go on a mystical journey, following in the footsteps of two important saints such as Saint Benedict from Norcia and Saint Rita from Cascia.

Located on a hill, Cascia is dominated by the Sanctuary and Monastery of Saint Rita. Also to be seen in the town are other gems of medieval architecture such as the Church of Saint Francis, the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate and the Palazzo Carli. The nearby Roccaporena also deserves a visit, as it is the birth place of Saint Rita, rich in places commemorating her life such as the house where she was born, the Garden of the Miracle and the Prayer Rock.

Continuing on your journey, you get to the walled town of Norcia, with doorways opening into an intricate honeycomb of streets and alleyways leading to the true centre of the town, the Basilica of Saint Benedict (13th century), with the crypt built on the remains of a Roman building, the Fortress, and the Town Hall.

In the territory of the Valnerina, and particularly in Norcia, one of the most important crafts is the working of pork. Equally important are dairy production and the working of wrought iron, woodwork and furniture production.

The cuisine offers simple but tasty dishes, first above all the black truffle. Other characteristic dishes include spelt, lentils, saffron and not forgetting, considering the great presence of numerous rivers, fresh fish. A special place on the table is reserved for the various cured meats which have been from time immemorial the typical food of this land and contribute to its gastronomical fame.