Arrived at Civitella Ranieri in Umbertide in the Umbria region of Italy on Tuesday. What an amazing place Civitella is… full of wonder, history, beauty and a deep sense of peace. To think this castle built in the 15th century was once an element of warring factions… now a place where artists and groups can create, innovate, contemplate and learn in community and fellowship. Our tour over these next days is focused on Sacred (Spiritual) Umbria.

Two views from my small apartment called Arco (Arch) … and my reading chair. Full of history and character… cozy, simple, quiet… A little bit of heaven nestled within the majesty of the Umbrian hills.

Views around the castle… the skies were incredible on Weds… the light and colors dancing from gray to blue- gray to bright blue with sun… Wednesday was a quiet day to settle in and explore downtown Umbertide.

My apartment is the 3 story windows to the left of the arch.

Walking in Wonder on a trail around the hill that the castle sits on

On Thursday we travelled to Arezzo to view the incredible frescoes at the Basilica Di San Francesco — Legend of the True Cross by Piero Della Francesca.

In Arezzo we were tremendously privileged to visit a restoration workshop where we learned how they are restoring a Pietro Lorenzetti altarpiece that will be finished next year and returned to its church in Arezzo for its 700th anniversary. It has been under restoration for 6 years! What an awe inspiring opportunity to see this masterpiece up close and learn from the master restorers. We were asked not to post any photos of the actual restorations since they are private until reinstalled in the church.

Travelled to the small town of Monterchi to view Piero della Francesca’s masterpiece, “ Madonna del Parto” — Pregnant Madonna. Our guide for Thursday was the Director of Civitella whose knowledge of and passion for art and della Francesca is extraordinary.

After dinner and compline in the chapel, walked around the castle in the crisp clear air under a starry sky and waxing moon.