Places
Hike·Easy·Family·Hidden gem
Marcite di Norcia & Piano di Santa Scolastica
Umbria
Benedictine monks engineered the "marcite" from around the 13th century: a lattice of channels spreads spring water (a constant ~10°C) over sloping meadows so they never freeze and can be cut for hay several times a year. Flat paths cross the system and the wider Santa Scolastica plain, with the Sibillini rising behind rebuilt Norcia.
Duration
2 hours
Distance
6 km
Elevation
+40 m
Best season
Year-round (greenest in winter)
Parking · Free
Free parking at the edge of Norcia near the Porta Ascolana.
Water
Fountains in Norcia.
Highlights
- Medieval monastic flood-meadow irrigation
- Green pasture through the winter
- Sibillini backdrop
With your dog
Off-leash tolerated on the meadows away from the water channels and grazing.
