Historic Centre of the City of Pienza, Renaissance town center in Pienza, Italy
The historic center is a Renaissance old town in southern Tuscany, built around a rectangular square (Piazza Pio II) with streets radiating symmetrically from it. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta faces the square, surrounded by palaces, residences, and municipal buildings all constructed during the same period.
A Pope commissioned an architect in 1458 to remake the medieval village and build it anew according to contemporary principles. Construction was completed within a few years, with the cathedral at the heart of this ambitious undertaking.
The city is named after Pope Pius II, who redesigned it according to his vision of a perfect urban space. Walking through the main square, you notice local shops selling pecorino cheese, a product that remains central to how people here connect with their heritage.
The old town is mostly closed to cars and best explored on foot at a relaxed pace. Multiple entry points lead into the center, and restaurants and cafés are scattered throughout, making it easy to take breaks while walking.
One large palace away from the main square has a hanging garden on its rear side with a viewing loggia overlooking the Tuscan hills. This hidden corner is often empty, offering a quiet spot when you want to escape the crowds.
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