The Hundred Turns – From Acquasparta to Casteldelmonte

The hike follows an ancient path that ascends from the village of Acquasparta up the mountain, twisting and turning so much that it earned the name “Hundred Turns.” Along this not-so-long climb, the trail passes several points of interest that summarize the history of the Martani Mountains. The route starts at Acquasparta train station, and the first 500 meters are along the SR 418 toward Spoleto. After the first curve, you reach the trailhead near a telecommunications tower. From here, the path climbs among olive groves to the romantic little Church of San Michele.

This is one of the four San Michele churches that surround and protect the Martani, built atop a small rocky outcrop offering a beautiful view of the countryside from Todi to Montecastrilli. It is worth noting that San Michele had been chosen as the patron saint by the Lombards, who ruled these lands, replacing Odin.

From here, the trail continues along the “Hundred Turns” until it reaches a dirt road leading to the charming village of Casteldelmonte, one of the historic centers of the Terre Arnolfe. Before reaching the village, the path passes under the summit of Monte Rotondo, where the remains of a circular, prehistoric hillfort can be visited via a short detour. From Casteldelmonte, it is possible to descend back toward Acquasparta along a path that cuts across the mountain.

The proposed route begins near the town of Acquasparta, which can be reached from both the south and the north via the SS 3 Bis (E45), exiting at the Acquasparta junction. Parking is available either near the junction or in the lot behind the train station. Acquasparta, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, offers a perfect opportunity to end the walk with a visit to its historic center, its beautiful main square, and Palazzo Cesi - the first home of the Accademia dei Lincei, founded by Duke Federico Cesi, now a multimedia museum.