The prosperous town of Bevagna, has pre-roman origins. Inhabited by Etruscans, from whose language it probably got the name ("Mefana", Mevania in Latin).
After a battle between lega Umbra and Rome, Bevagna formed an alliance with Rome in 295 and later, in 90 BC, became a Roman town hall.
Bevagna used to be a very thriving village and nowadays you can still admire the the splendid thermal baths, decorated with marvellous frescoes; the remains of the theatre, over which there were built lovely houses during the Middle Ages; the amphitheatre and, outside the medieval walls, some cippi and Latin inscriptions; a "domus"; various building finds; remains of a temple transformed into a church. The prosperity was due to the navigability of the Rivers Topino and Timia, and to the passage of Via Flaminia.
Bevagna underwent severe damages, as it was destroyed many times by Frederick Barbarossa around the 1152, and later by the Count of Angiò and the noble family of Trinci.
The huge Roman legacy has made this village a very important tourist attraction in Umbria. The Medieval beauties admirable through ancient narrow streets, the unbelievable calmness and tranquillity of its natural landscapes, the unique possibility to taste the delicious local food: that's why you should choose Bevagna....
Bevagna offers many tourist attractions: the village, by the way, is been classified as one the most beautiful Italian villages. You couldn't disagree, as you will indeed perceive a magic atmosphere, walking through the streets towards the main square, nearby the Church of St Michele Arcangelo. The Church, which dates back at the XII century, shows an impressive imposing Romanesque façade, with Umbrian decorations around the rose window.
Both Church of Madonna della Valle, famous destination of religious believers and the Church of Madonna delle Grazie, that overlooks the town, definitely worth a visit!
If you are planning your vacation in June you'll be delighted to attend the "Mercato delle Gaite": a really nice event that brings Bevagna back to the past, offering glimpses of Medieval life and shops. The locals will recall ancient trades, like: silk spinning, the glass art, the blacksmith, the rope-maker, the candle maker and so on...
Bevagna is also famous for its DOC and DOCG wines like the lovely Sagrantino DOCG.