Region and culture
A village in the heart
of Umbria
Known as the “Green Heart of Italy,” Umbria is a region of breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions. Nestled in central Italy, it features rolling hills, medieval towns like Assisi and Perugia, tranquil lakes, and vibrant markets. Known for exceptional wines, olive oil, and truffles, it’s a haven for food lovers. Umbria’s charm lies in its perfect harmony of history, natural beauty, and authentic Italian culture.
People and stories
Our rich
community
The Umbrian people are known to be warm, welcoming, and celebrants of local traditions, and Rastrello has been embraced by Panicale's warm sense of community in this spirit. All hotel staff live less than 20 minutes away, and the hotel is a meeting point for villagers for a drink, a game of cards, and comparing age-old recipes from their local Nonna's in Rastrello's own cookbook Spaghettata–Love and Pasta from Panicale. Welcoming guests like family, delicious cuisine, and timeless traditions are key parts of the beautiful hospitality that makes Umbria so special.
Elida Wassmann
A Panicale resident since 1995, Elida is the pioneer of Rastrello’s sustainable approach and the loving tender to every herb, plant, and flower that comes into the hotel, as well as its annual olive harvest. She is also the mother of Rastrello’s owner, Christiane Wassmann.
Patrizia Spadoni
A chef and wine and olive oil sommelier, Patrizia Spadoni runs the renowned Lillo Tatini Restaurant in Panicale’s main square. Born in France, she returned to Panicale as a child and began working at her parents’ restaurant—now joined by her own children, Bianca and Marco.
Luciano “Lucio” Braca
Luciano Braca, known as Lucio, was born in Panicale on the feast of Santa Lucia and raised in the farmhouse that is now Elida's home. A passionate cook, he’s known for his fresh pasta—
often made after wild boar hunts for his three grandchildren.
Elida Wassmann
A Panicale resident since 1995, Elida is the pioneer of Rastrello’s sustainable approach and the loving tender to every herb, plant, and flower that comes into the hotel, as well as its annual olive harvest. She is also the mother of Rastrello’s owner, Christiane Wassmann.
Patrizia Spadoni
A chef and wine and olive oil sommelier, Patrizia Spadoni runs the renowned Lillo Tatini Restaurant in Panicale’s main square. Born in France, she returned to Panicale as a child and began working at her parents’ restaurant—now joined by her own children, Bianca and Marco.
Luciano “Lucio” Braca
Luciano Braca, known as Lucio, was born in Panicale on the feast of Santa Lucia and raised in the farmhouse that is now Elida's home. A passionate cook, he’s known for his fresh pasta—
often made after wild boar hunts for his three grandchildren.
Elida Wassmann
A Panicale resident since 1995, Elida is the pioneer of Rastrello’s sustainable approach and the loving tender to every herb, plant, and flower that comes into the hotel, as well as its annual olive harvest. She is also the mother of Rastrello’s owner, Christiane Wassmann.
