Walking Penna in Teverina's old town

Start at the gate

Set your map to Piazza San Valentino, Penna in Teverina, then follow local signs to reach the old centre on foot. Before passing through the Porta Civica, look at how the entrance sits between the houses and the wall. Once inside, the square gives you an easy reference point for every small detour.

The local Terre dei Borghi Verdi castle walk connects the square, walls and Porta Novella. You can follow its outline without committing to the entire loop. Staying within the inner lanes still gives a satisfying sense of the place.

The square and church

Santa Maria della Neve faces the square. If the church is open and no service is taking place, step inside quietly and leave a little time to look. During worship, return later or continue the walk. Keep the next appointment flexible, as visitor access in a small parish can follow the needs of the congregation.

Look for the approach to the Presepe de la Penna near the square. The nativity display has its own entrance and arrangements. Confirm an opening with its association if this is one of your main reasons for visiting.

Follow the lanes to the valley

Continue towards Porta Novella. Part of the appeal is the change from close-set houses to an open landscape. Try walking the final stretch without looking at your phone, then stop where the view opens out. When taking photographs, leave doorways and stairways clear.

The route outside the walls gives a different perspective, but the surface and changes of level differ from the inner streets. After rain, with a buggy or with someone who tires easily, start with the inside route. A short walk and a comfortable pause make a better afternoon than struggling to finish a loop.

Notice the small details

On the return, stop near Palazzo Orsini and its neighbouring sculptures. Look for plant shapes, coats of arms and faces before reading their explanations. This can also be a good way to involve children who are less interested in dates and dynasties.

Allow roughly an hour or a little longer for the walk with stops, adding time separately for visits inside. Wear comfortable shoes even though this is a village walk rather than a hike. The public garden offers an outdoor break afterwards. If you are staying for lunch, our food guide suggests a few flavours to look for before leaving.