Everyone is in agreement that the front of the Orvieto Duomo is incredible, but most think the interior is disappointing. I loved the interior! True it is not the lavish decorated space you see all over Italy, but its very simplicity is what moved me. The interior and columns are alternating stripes of light and dark stone. No chairs, few paintings (except the side where you pay a separate admission, full of rich full blown paintings). When I walked in I was reminded of the great Mosque of Cordoba Spain, and of the small Synagogue in Toledo Spain. Both made me cry. Maybe if you don't go into the Orvieto Duomo expecting the lavishness of the exterior, you might be moved too.<BR>I agree with other Fodorites that just sitting on the piazetta in front of the Duomo is great, especially if you note that there are at least 5 architectural periods. reflected in the surrounding buildings. Also in gift show there is an item I didn't see almost any where else-tiles with pictures of varied professions, including the "unemployed" showing a diploma with a specialty in " all subjects". Althought the titles are in Italian, there is enough of a cognative relationship to English that together with the clever drawings, they make great gifts. They also sell beautiful ceramic jars for your favorite medications: viagra, cocaine, marijuana and ecstacy.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Duomo in Orvieto. Another plus was the frescos in the adjoining chapel.

I am going to Italy in Oct. with Orvieto planned as one of my top 3 missions I am so excited is there anything else I should know; is there a restaurant you suggest near by?<BR>to the top

We were there for just a partial day. We drove in and ate at a cafeteria type place across from the Duomo. The food was good and the wine was good also. What I can recommend to you is the Gelateria around the left side of the Duomo. Some of the best on the trip!

when in Orvieto, don't forget to pick up some of the local white wine. Fantastic stuff at great prices.

Good evening, Sherry<BR>Can suggest two ristorantes in Orvieto<BR>both of which we have eaten at and very<BR>much enjoyed. <BR>ETRUSCA, via Maintini, 6, closed on Mon.<BR>located a half block on right on street<BR>leading from the front of the Duomo.<BR>MAURIZIO, via Duomo, 78, closed on Tue.<BR>located just out the right hand side of<BR>the Duomos' square on left side of street. Richard of LaGrange Park, Il..

Can whole heartedly second the recommendation on the Trattoria Etruscan. It was awesome!<BR><BR>And the gelateria on the left of the duomo is excellent ...try the coco (coconut)<BR><BR>US