Facilities
The Epicurean institute is located in Perugia, Italy, the regional capital within the Province of Umbria.
Umbria, also called the “green heart of Italy,” is known for its picturesque landscapes, vineyards, olive oil, truffles, and most notably the chocolate produced at the Perugia Chocolate Factory, making this an ideal setting for culinary comprehension.
Although it is a hilly region, it is also home to Italy's second largest fresh water lake, Lake Trasimeno. Locals and tourists frequent the lake for its boating and water activities, but also to view its serene beauty.
Within a short drive is Assisi - one of the most distinguished cities in Umbria due to its stunning views of the countryside and its excellent preservation of the medieval historic center. Most importantly, it is the birthplace of St. Francis, the creator of the Order of Friars Minor. The city of Assisi not only attracts thousands of visitors each year but it is also the second most popular religious destination in Italy next to the Vatican.
Orvieto, a town in the southwestern part of Umbria, is noted for its position atop volcanic cliffs. It's most famous for its astonishing Duomo and the ancient underground 'city' that lies beneath it.
Aside from the numerous charming towns in Umbria, the region is also well-noted worldwide for its ceramic and cashmere production. Ceramic and cashmere factories line the streets of many towns close to Perugia, including Deruta- a small city within 10 minutes of the Institute’s villa. Renowned ceramic and cashmere companies such as Domitian Ceramics and Della Ciano Cashmere invite visitors each day to tour production facilities and enjoy discount prices at the factory stores.
Perugia has thrown its energies into becoming the most cosmopolitan medieval city in the world. It's home to one of Italy's largest state universities as well as the Università per Stranieri, the country's most prestigious school teaching Italian language and culture to foreigners. Local industry's biggest name is Perugina, purveyor of Italy's finest chocolates, and the city stages an urbane and stylish passeggiata stroll every evening and one of Europe's most celebrated jazz festivals every summer.