• Duomo di Orvieto - The 13th-century Gothic cathedral is one of Italy’s greatest attractions. We shall only visit the exterior which provides a wide variety of subjects, materials, and textures to the photographer. There are mediaeval bas-reliefs of the Creation, Heaven and Hell; mosaics, alabaster windows, and much more. An ideal subject for a photo essay in its own right, for the perfect blog-post.
• Pozzo di San Patrizio - This is an option. The 16th century well is 50m deep with steep winding steps so it involves exercise. However, the experience is well worth the effort. The light changes as we descend to the depths. The increasing darkness (though it is electrically lit) provides a challenge to the photographer, thus the experience will be improved with the use of a tripod which we can provide. At the bottom, we cross a bridge over the water from where the view up the spiral shaft to the surface is a truly unique experience.
• Torre del Moro - At the crossroads at the heart of the old city stands the ancient clock tower where we meet for the start of the tour. As an option, we can scale the 50m tower. There is a fine view from the top.
• Chiesa San Giovenale - San Giovenale, one of the oldest churches in Orvieto, stands on a precipice at the extreme west of the city. From here we get a fine view across the valley towards Tuscany and Latium. William Turner painted his memorable ‘View of Orvieto’ from the hill opposite in 1828. This view has hardly changed. The interior of the church is covered with extraordinarily brilliant mediaeval frescoes.
• Piazza del Popolo - Some of the oldest buildings stand around this large square, the ancient heart of Orvieto, which in ancient times was the seat of the civil administration in the palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. Here twice a week the lively market sets up till around noon. The stallholders provide the photographer with the most wonderfully weathered faces, worthy of a Bruegel painting.

• Camera and tripod rentals available

Among the Italian hill towns, Orvieto stands out as particularly photogenic and easy to explore on foot. The town is mostly pedestrian-friendly and flat, making it simple to navigate. Its medieval streets and alleys are lined with both grand palaces and charming, modest homes. Orvieto is full of delightful surprises: turn a corner to discover the majestic Gothic facade of the cathedral, find a Renaissance courtyard at the end of an alley, or stumble upon the entrance to an ancient Etruscan tomb.

The photography instructor has resided here for 15 years and possesses an in-depth knowledge of the area. With 20 years of teaching experience and a professional career that began after graduating from photography college in 1977, he is well-versed in the art.

From the city walls, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, featuring vineyards, olive groves, and charming villas and farms that stretch across the regions of Tuscany and Umbria.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.