Ahhh! Until I am actually back I forget how compelling this place is. Wandering the people filled streets, the intimate character of the physical space, it’s embracing nature, the artful way everything is done, the undivided attention everyone you talk to gives you – it all contributes to making you feel like the human being you are. So, so wonderful.

And of course nothing stays the same! Our favorite coffee shop, Scarponnis, is gone. The duomo is covered with scaffolding. But, as Rolanda, mom of the owner of our favorite restaurant said when we ran into her, the more things change the more they stay the same. So, some images.

The wisteria is in bloom at the convent, and out front they are redoing the pavers I love so much.

The facade needs work but I miss seeing it. Still, the building presents plenty of photo opps.

Then there is the endless detail.

And the food.

Home made ravioli stuffed with pumpkin and pancetta, and my wild boar papperdelle.

And Christian’s artfully displayed wine.

Ahhhh!

Kristi and Bill Steiner began leading “learning vacations” to Orvieto, Italy in 2003. Through Adventures in Italy they provide a cultural immersion experience. Many trips include the pursuit of some kind of creative work that complements and reinforces exploration of Italy’s culture. Relationships built over the years enable Kristi and Bill to provide experiences that a typical visitor to Orvieto never gets. Trips are held in May and September/October every year. Their Discover Orvieto and Taste of Orvieto trips are available to groups any time of the year. Learn more about Kristi and Bill’s trips. Stay abreast of Adventures in Italy developments, and follow Bill’s musings about travel and Italy on his blog Make Haste Slowly. View Bill's photos of Italy, Orvieto, and other memorable places at steinerstudiophotos.com, and follow him on Instagram. Slow Travel Tours is an affiliation of small-group tour operators who offer personalized trips in Italy, France and other European countries.