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Civitella Ranieri

Umbertide, Umbria, Italy

5.0(1)

About this Residency

Since 1995, Civitella Ranieri has invited writers, visual artists, and composers to work in a 15th-century castle in Umbria, 30 minutes from Perugia and 2 hours from Florence. Fellowships are fully funded — round-trip international travel, private room and studio, and lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday using ingredients sourced from local Umbrian producers and the castle garden. The residency is nomination-only: artists must be put forward by an international network of professionals; direct applications are not accepted. Approximately 14 fellows per session, four six-week sessions annually from May through November.

Open Calls

2027 Civitella Ranieri Fellowship

248d left

The Civitella Ranieri Fellowship supports artists and writers for 5-week residencies at a 15th-century Umbrian castle in Italy. All costs covered including international travel. Highly competitive: approximately 15 fellows selected from 1,000+ applicants.

Deadline: November 1, 202615 spots

Rating Breakdown

5.0

Exceptional

1 review

Artist Reviews

Elena Vasquez

Attended 2022 · February 26, 2026

A 15th-century castle filled with the best artists in the world

I don't exaggerate when I say Civitella Ranieri changed my life. The castle is extraordinary — thick stone walls, frescoed ceilings, a garden with views across Umbria — but what sets it apart is the caliber of the other fellows. In my session we had a Pulitzer finalist, a Turner Prize shortlisted sculptor, and a MacArthur-winning composer. The conversations over meals were unlike anything I'd had anywhere else. Everything is paid for, including your flights. Apply every year until you get in.

✓ Pros

Covers all costs including international travel, exceptional fellow cohort, unforgettable location

✗ Cons

Extremely competitive. The location is rural — you'll need a car to leave the castle grounds.