Montepulciano, Medieval town in Tuscany, Italy
Description
Montepulciano is a commune in the Province of Siena, Tuscany, Italy, extending along a limestone ridge and composed of several tightly clustered residential quarters. Buildings line up around central squares and along winding lanes that climb the slope, forming a compact urban structure.
History
Excavations point to habitation from the 4th century BC, followed by Roman presence and later rivalries between the republics of Florence and Siena. In the 16th century the community lost its independence and was absorbed into the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.
Culture
The settlement takes its name from the Latin Mons Politianus, referring to its position on the mountain. Throughout the center, shields mark the boundaries of eight traditional districts, each maintaining its own identity through flags and emblems displayed on building facades.
Practical
The main route through the settlement climbs from the lower gate, Porta al Prato, up to Piazza Grande, linking all major sights along the way. Streets are narrow and steep, so sturdy footwear and time for rest stops are advisable.
Did you know?
Every August the Bravio delle Botti takes place, with representatives from the eight districts racing wooden wine barrels of around 80 kilograms (176 pounds) uphill through the lanes. The race ends at Piazza Grande and draws crowds lining the streets.
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San Biagio, Montepulciano
1.2 km
Cathedral of Montepulciano
874 m
Palazzo Comunale
825 m
Palazzo Nobili-Tarugi
821 m
Sant'Agnese
243 m
Sant'Agostino
477 m
Madonna della Rosa
6.3 km
San Giovanni Battista
6.1 km
Castelluccio
7.6 km
Chiesa del Gesù
801 m
Palazzo Contucci
839 m
Santa Maria dei Servi
1.2 km
San Francesco
635 m
Santa Maria delle Grazie
935 m
Museo Civico di Montepulciano
751 m
Sante Flora e Lucilla
7.5 km
Santa Lucia
498 m
Santi Fabiano e Sebastiano
6 km
Tumulus of Poggio Gaiella
14.8 km
Chianciano Museum of Art
6.3 km
San Leonardo
4.4 km
Museo Civico Archeologico delle Acque
5.8 km
Chiesa di San Bernardino
7.6 km
Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista in Poggiolo
801 m
Villa Simoneschi
5.8 km
Santa Maria delle Grazie
935 m
Sacro Cuore
6.9 km
Madonna delle Nevi
7.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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