Montepulciano is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Tuscany. Located on top of a hill in the province of Siena, it dominates the Val di Chiana and the Val d'Orcia offering some breathtaking views. Its look still conserves a Medieval charm and the legacy of a century-old history. In fact, in the 13th century Montepulciano was the center of the war between the Republics of Siena and Florence, which fought to gain the control of the whole valley. Even today, his position is considered strategic for the visitors who wish to reach other centers of interest, such as Siena, Pienza, San Quirico d'Orcia or Bagno Vignoni, and is therefore a famous tourist destination. His fame as a tourist destination has increased after that it's been chosen as location for the filming of the movie "New Moon" of the Twilight saga!
Do you dream of visiting the most beautiful area of Tuscany? Then Montepulciano is the perfect destination for you!
Discover its must-sees and start planning your trip now!
Montepulciano old town center is a beauty. Its highest point is Piazza Grande, which is also the place where events such as "Bravio delle Botti" are organized. This traditional festivity is a competition between the representatives of eight contradas, which must push barrels through the streets of the town. It's here that some of the main monuments of the city are located,that is to say the Dome, Palazzo Comunale, Palazzo Tarugi and Palazzo Contucci. While the Cathedral of Sant'Assunta is the major place of worship in town, the other palaces are magnificent noble buildings. The most important one is Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall), which was commissioned by Cosimo I De'Medici during the Florentine dominion and presents the wonderful Torre dell'Orologio (Clock Tower).
Other buildings you should see are the Medici Fortress, which is an ancient castle built in 1261, the Church of Sant'Agostino and the Torre di Pulcinella, a bell tower with a statue of Pulcinella beating on the bell which is shrouded in mystery, as nobody knows the reason why this Neapolitan symbol is put there.
After taking some photographs of these splendid monuments, why don't you stroll a little in the elegant "Corso"? The charming road crossing the whole city from Porta al Prato to the Church of Santa Maria dei Servi is where you will find restaurants, bars and many shops to purchase some souvenirs of your fantastic trip!
Another symbol of the city is the Church of San Biagio, a chapel located at the foot of the hill and immersed in the typical countryside. The church and its dome can be reached by walking along a path adorned with cypress trees, which also conserves an incredible charm. You'll find yourself in a fabulous place, surrounded by a lovely landscape that seems stolen from the background of a nice postcard. Otherwise, if you'd prefer spending your day in an interesting museum, you can't miss the famous Torture Museum, the Civic Museum or the Pinacoteca Crociani, some art galleries that contain works made by important Sienese and Florentine painters.
If you wish to visit Montepulciano, one day is not enough. Take some time to discover the beauties of the historical center or the neighboring villages and enjoy your holiday to the fullest!
You can walk along the countryside streets adorned with cypress trees, cross the wheat fields, immerse yourself in the authentic Tuscan beauty or visit the lake of Montepulciano to practice some bird watching. Also, you have the unmissable opportunity to take part to a memorable wine tour inside a local "agriturismo" and taste some food specialties in a good typical restaurant! Some of the dishes you must try are the pappardelle pasta with a meat sauce, the croutons with livers and the pore mushrooms with "ciaccia" bread, which can be accompanied by a glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, one of the best red wines in the world.
Are you ready for your vacation? Book our Villa Lauretana or Villa Corolle to turn your holiday in Southern Tuscany into a daydream!
© Alice Pilastri
