Located only 34 minutes from Orvieto, Monteleone d’Orvieto was founded in 1052 by the commune of Orvieto as a castle to guard the northern boundaries, there is still evidence of the ancient fortified walls and gateways that surrounded the village.
Late afternoon is the time to stroll about and visit with the villagers. Potted plants around wooden doorways with neatly maintained thresholds are common in Monteleone d’Orvieto.
Behind is part of the panoramic view of the Umbrian, Tuscan and Lazio countryside which encompasses the great expanse beyond the village walls. On Piazza Pietro Bilancini stands La Torre dell’Orologio, the clock tower. It was designed and built in 1800 with bricks manufactured in local furnaces. A bas-relief designed with brick, representing the emblem of Monteleone, is just below the clock face.
The ladies of Monteleone d’Orvieto are charming. Neatly dressed. They present themselves just as they keep their tidy little village…well maintained. The south gate of the village is part of the original castle. Although the north gate is the main entrance, some traffic comes through this one as well. Above the gate you can see a small shrine of the virgin Mary. IThis village, although small and not touristy, is a delight to visit.