Another Stone in the Wall

Like everything else here in Central Italy, the weather is perfecto, even for climbing through vertical hill towns like Spello and Colapigna (a surprise, unplanned side trip by the bus driver determined to defy sliding stones and non-passable crests). Perched high along the Umbrian Valley, these walled fortresses are home to cave-like dwellings which crack open and burst alive in the evenings. It is only we Americanos and other European tourists who deftly traipse along the open cobblestone in the mid-day 90 degree heat. Each winding stone archway and hidden crevice are filled with wet color and thriving greens. No dirt or grass exist in these towns, only stunning peacock-like displays of personal vegetation. Spello...the first wine swirlings and olive oil tasting cave; Colapigna...Italia in all its authentic splendor.