Radicofani, Medieval fortress in Val d'Orcia, Italy
Radicofani is a medieval fortress perched on a volcanic hilltop in the Val d'Orcia region of Siena Province, with the small village nestled at its base. The fortress tower rises prominently from the summit, and the surrounding slopes are dotted with ancient walls and structures that tell the story of centuries of occupation.
The fortress was first mentioned in written records during the 10th century and served as a military stronghold between the Grand Duchy of Tuscany and the Papal States. Over the centuries, it changed hands several times and gradually lost its strategic importance as borders shifted and conflicts diminished.
The name Radicofani comes from Latin words meaning root or radish, referring to the deep rock formations of the mountain. Today, locals see the fortress as the defining symbol of their community and a place where travelers come to understand the region's past.
The climb to the fortress from the village below is steep and requires a moderate level of fitness, so wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. The best time to visit is outside the hottest summer hours, as shade is limited at the summit and on the exposed path.
The fortress was once the hideout of Ghino di Tacco, a medieval bandit whose story appears in Dante's Divina Commedia and Boccaccio's Decameron. This notorious figure transformed the fortress into a literary landmark that attracted attention across Europe centuries before modern tourism.
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