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Archaeological site · Orvieto, Úmbria
Orvieto Underground
Guided tour of the caves excavated in the tuff beneath Orvieto over 2,500 years: Etruscan wells, an ancient olive press and medieval dovecotes opened into the cliff.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Orvieto Underground
Orvieto was built on a volcanic tuff rock that is easy to excavate. Over roughly 2,500 years, inhabitants opened more than 1,200 cavities beneath the houses: wells, cisterns, cellars, workshops and storerooms. That's why people talk about a second city beneath the first.
The guided tour Orvieto Underground covers a group of these caves on the edge of the rock, below the Piazza del Duomo. It shows Etruscan wells and tunnels used to fetch water, a medieval olive press with the stone mill, and rooms where tuff was extracted for building.
One highlight is the columbaria, whole walls with niches carved to house pigeons, whose meat was part of the local cuisine. Some spaces open as windows in the cliff face, with views over the valley.
The caves were explored from the late 1970s by cavers from Orvieto. The route is easy, with few stairs, and visits are only with a guide, in groups and at fixed times.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour, guided visits only.
Best time
At midday, when the outside heat is strongest: inside the caves the temperature remains low year-round.
How to get there
The tours depart from the Piazza del Duomo, in front of the cathedral. Times are posted at the meeting point and on the official website.
Tip
On weekends and in high season, book in advance. Bring a light jacket — the caves are cool even in summer.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Orvieto Underground
Is the Orvieto Underground tour guided?
Yes, only with a guide, in groups and at fixed times, departing from the Piazza del Duomo.
Do I need to reserve?
On weekends and in high season, reservation is recommended.
Is the visit difficult?
No. The route is easy, with few stairs, and lasts about 1 hour.
What can be seen in the caves?
Etruscan wells and tunnels, a medieval olive press and walls with niches used to raise pigeons.