Perugia dominates the Tiber Valley from a high hill. The rich artistic and cultural heritage of the region make Perugia a city of unique and major importance.
The region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, first a settlement of the Umbrians, then the Etruscans, becoming one of the most important cities in the High Tiber Valley. The region was conquered by Rome and Perugia was involved in the civil war between Antonio and Ottaviano, the latter taking possession of the town in 40 BC.
After the fall of the Roman Empire Perugia was destroyed again, in 547, by Totila before coming under Byzantine sway, and finally a powerful independent city-state allied to the Papal State.
Characterised by violent struggles Papal rule continued from the 14th century until the formation of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. Today Perugia is a modern and cosmopolitan university city. Attractions include Corso Vannucci, famous for its passeggiate, the 19th-century Piazza Italia, Palazzo dei Priori and the superb Piazza IV Novembre.