Montalcino, Medieval commune in Tuscany, Italy
Description
Montalcino is a medieval commune in the Province of Siena, Tuscany. The town sits on a hilltop and is crowned by a pentagonal fortress that still incorporates parts of the defensive walls from the 14th century.
History
The settlement began in the 9th century around a church founded by monks from the nearby Abbey of Sant'Antimo. In 1361, residents built the fortress to defend themselves against the expansion of Florence.
Culture
The name recalls the oak forests that once covered the hillsides, though now vineyards dominate the surrounding countryside. Visitors watch local winemakers at work in the cellars, where centuries-old wine traditions continue daily.
Practical
The old town is best explored on foot, as steep lanes and historic buildings sit close together. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, since the streets are cobbled and include several changes in elevation.
Did you know?
The Brunello wine from this area is made entirely from Sangiovese grapes and must age for at least five years before it can be sold. This variety was the first in Italy to receive DOCG protected designation status.
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Val d'Orcia
5 km
Abbey of Sant'Antimo
7 km
Cipressi di San Quirico d'Orcia
5.6 km
Montalcino Cathedral
128 m
Castello di Montalcino
356 m
Sant’Agostino
146 m
Madonna del Soccorso, Montalcino
260 m
Sant'Egidio
285 mCastello Banfi
11.5 km
Badia Ardenga
5.6 km
Castello di Monte Antico
12.9 km
San Lorenzo in San Pietro a Montalcino
126 m
San Francesco
271 m
Santi Filippo e Giacomo
7.4 km
Convento dell’Osservanza
1.3 km
Teatro degli Astrusi
148 m
Santa Restituta
6 km
Civic and Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art
163 m
Chiesa dei Bianchi
278 m
Santi Biagio e Donato
9.4 km
Santa Maria delle Grazie
376 m
Corpus Domini
113 m
Santa Croce
274 m
Chiesa della Misericordia
7.6 km
San Sigismondo a Poggio alle Mura
9.4 km
San Tommaso Apostolo
13 km
San Rocco
5.8 km
Sant'Antonio Abate
188 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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