Marta Cucchia is a designer. She had left Perugia to study at IED in Milan to launch an international career. Meanwhile, back home, her mother had decided to close the artisanal weaving workshop founded by her great-grandmother, Giuditta Brozzetti, with its original looms. It would have been a real shame to let such a heritage go, with patterns inspired by traditional motifs or works of art, like the tablecloth painted by Leonardo da Vinci in The Last Supper, and smart solutions to lighten the pedals. Set up in a deconsecrated church just a few steps from the center of Perugia, this historic museum-atelier with looms two centuries old thrives thanks to Marta’s passion and dedication, who returned to Perugia to take care of the family business. We entrust her with the story of her city, the capital of chocolate (have you ever heard of Baci Perugina? They were born right here), music (Umbria Jazz is an internationally renowned annual event), and many other precious secrets. WEBSITE

How would you describe Italy today in a few words?
I imagine Italy as a great forge, where the many local identities are expressed through art, craftsmanship, cuisine, and traditional festivals. I love this particularity: being diverse yet always the same in a thousand different ways.

Why Perugia?
Perugia is my city, where I was born and raised. I left to study interior design in Milan, but I returned because you need to distance yourself from something to truly appreciate it.

A place to visit
Without a doubt, the Studio Moretti Caselli, one of the most beautiful and unexpected places in our region.

A stolen secret? 
Perugia might seem like a magnificent medieval city, but its roots go back to the Etruscan era, when it was one of the 12 most important cities in central Italy. You can discover this hidden history by visiting the underground Perugia and the beautiful archaeological museum.

An inspiring walk?
Assisi is obviously a must-see in our area. I recommend an unusual way to reach the basilica: start from the Bosco di San Francesco and walk the paths where the Saint used to stroll, arriving at a side entrance (almost invisible) in front of the magnificent church of San Francesco. It takes your breath away (also because of the climb).

The best time of day? 
My favourite time of day is sunset, especially in the early summer months when swifts fill the sky with their calls. You can go to the city centre and enjoy this spectacle with a drink in hand.

A relaxing moment? 
Relaxation for me means meditation, and the only place where I find a true connection with everything is the Pian Grande of Castelluccio di Norcia. My absolute favourite place, where you can feel the energy of nature.

A special experience
Once in a lifetime, you have to attend the annual Corsa dei Ceri in Gubbio, a thrilling and intense experience celebrated on the 15th March.

The essence of the Perugia
Authenticity: here, people are genuine, cities are lived in, and local traditions are preserved with love and passion; nothing is done for show.

That memorable evening? 
If you want to experience my city at its best, I recommend visiting in the evening during Umbria Jazz, a true explosion of music and conviviality.

An unforgettable dish
My favorite dish, as a true local, is pasta alla norcina, but I love our Umbrian cuisine in general: torta al testo, cured meats, truffles… One of my favourite restaurants in the city is La Bottega del Vino, with fresh food and excellent service.

The most beautiful view
Every glimpse is a painting… it’s hard to choose just one, but I would say the sunset over Lake Trasimeno.

The Souvenir? 
I am convinced that nothing tells the story of the places you visit better than local craftsmanship, where the spirit of the place is best expressed.

The drink
Red wine! We are spoiled for choice 🙂

What to pack for a weekend
Comfortable walking shoes because Perugia, like all of Umbria, should be savoured by getting lost in the alleys of its magnificent historic centres.

The hotel of the heart?
Borgo dei Conti, without a doubt: elegance, attention to detail, and professionalism.

How to feel like a local in…

Fare le vasche in centro il Sabato sera: in the local dialect it means to walk back and forth along Corso Vannucci between Piazza Italia and the arch of Via dei Priori, on Saturday evening, in order to meet up with friends!