Exploring the ancient towns of Tuscany
Tuscany is a vast region of Italy where a fabulous surprise awaits round almost every corner. Dotted amongst Tuscany’s splendid scenery is many an ancient town, each with its own fascinating history. If you are heading to Tuscany sometime soon and are interested in discovering the region’s diverse and intriguing history, take a look at the following three great ancient towns that are crying out to be explored.
Pienza
The town of Pienza was created by humanist Pope Pius II in the Renaissance of the 15th century with the intention of being an ‘ideal city’. This ancient town has been incredibly well-preserved. One of its many highlights is the Palazzo Piccolomini, which was built in 1459 as a summer home for Pope Pius II. The palace is considered one of the earliest examples of Renaissance architecture.
Concerts and events are hosted throughout the year in Palazzo Piccolomini’s courtyard.
With its fine examples of Renaissance architecture, incredible views and quality restaurants, shops and bars, Pienza is definitely a Tuscan town worthy of any discerning traveller’s itinerary.
Cortona
Cortona is located in the Arezzo province of Tuscany. This quaint and pretty town boasts a dominant position overlooking the Valdichiana, a stunning 100 kilometre-long valley that runs from north to south along the plain of Orvieto and the plain of Arezzo.
Ancient walls surround this charming town. In recent years the amount of tourists visiting Cortona has increased due to the filming of the movie ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’, which is based on Frances Mayes’ novel.
Art-enthusiasts are in their element in Cortona as the town’s museums are home to many an artistic treasure, including Beato Angelico’s painting The Annunciation of Cortona.
Pitigliano
The town of Pitigliano is situated to the south of Tuscany in the Grosseto province. What’s been described as one of the ‘best small towns in Italy’, the hilltop town of Pitigliano stands out from afar, stood between two cliffs.
One of this ancient town’s biggest highlights is the Orsini Palace, which was built by the Aldobrandeschi family in the 12th century. In the 14th century the palace was extended by the Orsini family.
Known as the Little Jerusalem due to the Jewish community, which has long been established in the town, Pitigliano is a Tuscan gem just waiting to be explored.