One thousand feet above the valley floor, Orvieto overlooks the Italian countryside. Upon first glance, it would appear that the Cathedral of Orvieto is its only structure. Rising from the volcanic stone of the upper town, the 14th-century church simply creates that commanding of a presence.

The ancient city, a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with shops and cafes and fanning out in all directions, serves to complement the undeniably alluring gem. Outside, the Cathedral of Orvieto is enchanting. Alternating dark and light-colored horizontal lines wrap around the sides to meet humbly at the doors of its facade.