This is a fabulous house that dates back to the 13th century, as witnessed by a Romanesque lion's head still in the facade. It has been entirely renovated (with suggestions and designs by the great sculptor Beverly Pepper). It is inside the town walls, about 5 min. walk from the main square, so it is conveniently located in terms of shopping. I mean why come to Italy and isolate yourselves in a rural farmhouse? May as well stay in Palo Alto (they tell me the landscape is very similar). We wanted to enjoy living amongst the Italians and that is why we chose this house. And yet it is very private and quiet because it is flanked by the apse of the church of S. Prassede on the south-west side, and has a 1,200 sq.ft. garden in front. All the windows have great views of the valley below and the Martani mountains directly east. Todi is smack in the center of Umbria, one of Italy's most beautiful and artistic regions. (It is much less touristy than neighboring Tuscany.) Todi has about 9,000 inhabitants, with very little industry and rolling hills and farm land all around. It is set on top of a hill, 480 m. above sea level, and is primarily medieval in its architectural make-up.

For years we searched for a property here and finally found it, one that we could restore as we wanted. Our house is in the neighbourhood of Borgo, one of the oldest areas, inside the first ring of the Etruscan town. Not many properties in Todi with such views and with a 400 sq. meter garden inside the city walls! Another good reason for being in town, apart from enjoying concerts at the theater, exhibitions, cocktails on the square, is the BEST ICE CREAM in the world (as verified by many of our guests). Yes, the Bar Pianegiani, is only a 10-min. walk up the street. We lived in Todi for 14 years between 1974 and 1988. It is truly an 'Ideal City', but don't tell too many people, or it will turn into another San Gimignano (the town in Tuscany with more tourists than townsfolk).