Hi,<BR><BR>I have heard from various sources to make sure that when you see the Ovieto Duomo that you see it in full sunshine for the most stunning and dramatic effect on the incredible mosaic facade. As we are planning on doing a day trip to Orvieto next week, I am wondering if anyone knows the best time of day to visit to make sure that we don't miss this site in all its glory! Any other recommendations on anything else in Orvieto (restaurants, museums etc.) would be greatly appreciated.<BR><BR>Thanks,<BR>George

Hi George --<BR><BR>The Duomo faces more or less southwest, so you will want to be there in the afternoon rather than the morning. However, I must warn you that they have had scaffolding up on the facade for the past two years which somewhat spoils the effect (and certainly restricts your photos).<BR><BR>Be sure to go inside and see the San Brizio chapel on the right -- There is a small admission fee but it is quite fantastic.<BR><BR>Pull up my thread titled "Orvieto Restaurant Report" for some great restaurant recommendations.<BR><BR>Otherwise, just wander around town (it's very charming)or take the underground tour. Be sure to have a gelato at the place to the left of the Duomo (as you face the facade) at the end. Some of the best in Italy, IMO.

Thank you Marilyn! I hope the scaffolding doesn't take too much of the view away, but I know there is more to the Duome than that!<BR><BR>George

By the way, George, there is a museum directly across from the Duomo called the Museum Claudio Faina. Visiting the upper floors will put you directly across from the Duomo facade for a closer look.

Across from the Duomo is the TI office where one buys tickets to the Capella Nuova. In '99, admission was free before 10am, sort of a bonus to those who had spent the night in town.