Street by street this town remains mostly medieval,, and for a small town it is rich in works of art, good shops and restaurants.

The thirteen towers that dominate the majestic skyline were built by rival noble families during the 12th and 13th centuries. During this time, the town's position, which is on the main pilgrim route from northern Europe to Rome, brought it great porsperity. The plague of 1348, and later the diversion of hte pilgrim route, led to its economic decline as well as its preservation.