Situated at the western margins of the Valle Umbra, Bevagna has long been at the centre of a busy road network, inhabited probably since the 7th century BC, ancient Mevania experienced its most affluent period under the Romans, thanks largely to its position on Via Flaminia. Many illustrious citizens of ancient Rome built their country houses here. Following a period of decline during the Lombard era, when this branch of the Via Flaminia lost importance, the town experienced a revival in the 12th century, and this was when Bevagna acquired its current appearance. Town walls, incorporating part of the Roman walls, were built, with a main square at the centre. Not only are the walls still a feature, but remarkably little has been built outside them since the Middle Ages.