Visit Palazzo Seneca in Norcia, the home of St Benedict

Norcia, the birthplace of St Benedict, Patron Saint of Europe, founder of the oldest monastic order in the west and one of the most important Saints in Umbrian history is today (21st March) celebrating St Benedict’s day, one of the most significant and profoundly felt festivals: the Feast of St Benedict. Celebrations will take place in Norcia to honour its world-famous Patron who was born here in the 5th century A.D. Norcia is also one of Italy’s three completely walled medieval cities, home of the Italian Black truffle, the most prized salumerie in the country and Palazzo Seneca - a 24 room Relais Chateaux property owned by the Bianconi family who have lived in the town for 150 years - that pays homage to Umbria with décor reflecting the local materials. It is the ideal place to experience some of the best products that Italy has to offer with mouth-watering cuisine featuring regional specialities from truffles to lentils and the possibility to sample the local gastronomy with truffle hunting, wine and extra virgin oil tasting and cooking lessons available in the hotel. Situated just minutes from the Sibbilini National Park stretching over 173,000 acres, there is a vast array of activities available from fabulous walking to mountain biking, rafting, horse riding and exhilarating winter sports such as snowshoe trekking and cross country skiing. Doubles start at £115, including breakfast For bookings at Palazzo Seneca please visit www.palazzoseneca.com or call +39 0743 817434 Suggested flights to Rome Fiumicino with Easy Jet from £60, BA from £165 or to Perugia with Ryan Air from £28 For further press information please contact Amanda or Emily at Ann Scott Associates: amanda@annscott.co.uk or emily@annscott.co.uk / +44 207 8239988