GETTING TO KNOW THE VAL D'ORCIA

The Val d’Orcia was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in July 2004.
The uniqueness of the Val d’Orcia is embodied by the synergy of the outstanding beauty of its five villages.

SAN QUIRICO D'ORCIA

The village grew up along the Via Francigena, the historical pilgrim route to Rome. Among the attractions worthy of a visit you’ll find the ‘Collegiata’ Church, Palazzo Chigi Zondadari, The Chiesa della Madonna and the Horti Leonini gardens. Just a short distance from San Quirico lies the hamlet of Bagno Vignoni, a historical spa known for its “square of water”.

PIENZA

The ideal Renaissance town takes its name from Pope Pius II who in 1459 charged the Florentine architect Bernardo Gambarelli, also known as ‘ Il Rossellini’, with the project. The result was the creation of a rare example of urban planning, which was centred around the its main square. The principal buildings around the square are: the Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, Palazzo Vescovile and the Town Hall. The historical centre of Pienza became a World Heritage Site in 1996. Close to Pienza is the Medieval village of Monticchiello, which is also worth a visit.

MONTALCINO

Located on a ridge surrounded by slopes covered in vineyards and olive groves, the village is in a dominating position between the valleys of three rivers, the Ombrone, Orcia and Asso. Montalcino is characterised by late medieval architecture. Although there are many typical products such as oil, saffron and honey, Montalcino is famous all over the world for the production of its Brunello wine.

CASTIGLIONE D'ORCIA

On the top of a hill with a breathtaking views, is the village of Castiglione d’Orcia, which as the name suggests was a former castle.
Not far from the village it is possible to visit the free thermal springs known as Fosso Bianco in Bagni San Filippo. For those who enjoy walking, we suggest you take the ‘Water path’ through the woods in nearby Vivo d’Orcia.

RADICOFANI

Around the remains of an ancient fortress, built on the orders of Pope Adrian IV in 1154, lies the village of Radicofani.
In Medieval times the village was an important resting place along the Via Francigena, this is recognised by the presence of seven old hostelries or ‘spedali’ for pilgrims. Radicofani was also the dominion of, and inaccessible refuge for the famous knight Ghino di Tacco who used the fortress for his endeavours which were celebrated in the works of Dante Alighieri and Boccaccio.