The capital city of both the central region of Umbria and the province of Perugia is the town by this same name. Perugia is a vibrant and flourishing city known as the “universities center.” Modern students from all over the world come to study the arts, sciences, literature, and history in centers of learning established as far back as 1308 when the University of Perugia was founded. It hosts approximately 35,000 students.

Perugia offers something for everyone to delight the senses. The Music Conservatory of Perugia was founded in 1788. Visitors come especially for the annual festivals and events: In July there is Umbria Jazz Festival, the Eurochocolate Festival in October with its many delicacies, and the International Journalism Festival in April. If you are seeking visual arts, both architecture and works of art abound. The famous painter, Pietro Vannucci, nicknamed Perugino, decorated the local Sala del Cambio with a beautiful series of frescoes. Eight of his pictures can also be admired in the National Gallery of Umbria.