In 1876, Giosuè Carducci, who had arrived in Spoleto as an examiner at the Classical Lyceum, visited Campello sul Clitunno and wrote the “Ode to the Springs of the Clitunno,” a description of the magnificence of the place. The poet’s visit is now commemorated by a stele designed by Turin sculptor Leonardo Bistolfi, with an inscription by Ugo Ojetti. The Umbrian village of Campello sul Clitunno truly deserves all the poetry that human beings can produce.

Located on the Clitunno River, which originates here, the ancient core of the current municipality is found in the district of Campello Alto, a castle built in 921 by Rovero di Champeaux, Baron of Burgundy. However, even in classical antiquity, the god of the Clitunno River was praised, not only by Propertius but also by Virgil. The latter recorded the curious legend of the oxen that, when immersed in the river’s waters, became even whiter.
The territory also hosts the Tempietto del Clitunno, a small temple-like shrine, considered one of the most interesting early medieval monuments in Umbria, as well as one of the seven jewels of Lombard art and architecture in Italy, recently included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The visit to the village is completed by the previously mentioned Campello Alto Castle, the 14th-century structure of the village center, well-preserved walls and entrance gates, the parish church dedicated to San Donato, the Pissignano Castle, and the Sanctuary of Madonna della Bianca, built in 1516.
Beyond the undeniable beauty of the historical buildings, the Umbrian village also captivates through its cultural roots, evidenced by the Museum of Rural Civilization and the Documentation Center on Transhumance and Shepherds, which showcase the traditional customs of the surrounding countryside. These lands have always provided its inhabitants with products that form the foundation of the simple local cuisine, including cheeses, olive oil, and truffles. All that remains is to discover the flavors and wonders of Umbria.