Umbra Photo of the Month Contest

Congratulations to Laura Bergstein from the University of Denver for her photo of a fisherman. Laura will enjoy a free meal from Quattro Passi Pizzeria. Auguri Laura!

Searching for Inspiration in Assisi

Yesterday afternoon students in Professor Bill Pettit's Fresco Painting courses put down the brushes and went to the Basilica of San Francesco in nearby Assisi. Despite some missed train confusion -- a regular occurence while navigating Italy's public transportation networks -- the students were able to spend several hours at the Basilica studying the world-famous frescoes for both content and technique.

Can't wait to see everyone's finished works next month at the Umbra Art Show!

Fall In Umbria

These leaves on the ivy on the fortress are about as much color as we get in Umbria in the Fall, though there are beautiful yellow birch trees that hide down in the valleys between the Umbrian hills. The weather is definitely turning now to chilly in the night (though there was a good crowd on costumed students on the Steps of the cathedral last night), though the days remain sunny -- thank goodness for Perugian sun -- and fairly warm. It's the Umbrian version of Indian Summer.

There aren't any hayrides or doughnuts or football games but this week marks a typically Umbrian tradition, new wine and roasting chestnuts. As you can see here, vendors are already out in the center of the city, selling their hot-roasted wares. We're also getting close to San Martino, the traditional night to open up the wine barrels and taste the new wine. Umbra Institute students will likely go for an Umbrian classic, Falo' (which translates to "bonfire"), made by the best local cantina. And next year we'll get back to cider and football!