Mura etrusche e medievali

Perugia's Etruscan and medieval walls preserve the outlines of the hilltop city across several historical periods. Dry-laid travertine blocks of the ancient circuit appear alongside later medieval masonry, often incorporated into streets and buildings.

Why it matters

The Etruscan walls formed one of the largest surviving circuits of their kind in Italy. Their continued presence helps explain the shape of Perugia's historic centre and the relationship between its ancient and medieval urban fabric.

What to notice

The Etruscan sections use large quadrangular and trapezoidal blocks laid without mortar. At some points medieval brickwork rises above or beside the older stone. The circuit includes several monumental gates, among them the Arco Etrusco and Porta Marzia, whose inscriptions and sculpture record later phases of the city's history.

Context and history

Most surviving portions of the Etruscan circuit date to the third century BC, with earlier sections also present. The walls were incorporated into Perugia's growing medieval defences, which extended beyond the ancient line. Later development cut or covered parts of the circuit, but substantial stretches remain visible across the old town.