Wander around the streets of Monticchiello

In the heart of Val d’Orcia, in the municipality of Pienza, you can find the ancient village of Monticchiello which has succeeded in conserving an authentic beauty. Monticchiello was the main center of the armed settlement on the border of Siena so during its history it was often objected to wars, assaults, destruction, and occupations. In 

Even to this day the village still preserves its old walls, towers and castle, the village inside the fortifications has kept uninjured its medieval features. Yes, in Monticchiello it seems as though time has frozen.

Strolling through Monticchiello, one can imagine that this village has seemingly improved little over the centuries. The remaining towers, one of which is now privately owned, hearken back to the day when they were fortifications to defend the village.  With less than 200 inhabitants, many locals occupy the Porta Sant’Agata to greet the limited number of tourists that find their way here. As there is only one way in and one way out of Monticchiello, it is easy to notice visitors heading up the hill from the parking area below.  So, if you find yourself heading to Tuscany, make a stop at Monticchiello. The more well-known Tuscan towns that everyone visits such as Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano, are all beautiful in their own right, but they can also be overrun with tourists depending on when you visit. For a more relaxed atmosphere and experience, try one of Tuscany’s truly overlooked gems.