Exploring the Towns of Val d‘Orcia

Dec 26
10:40

2014

Lisa Jeeves

Lisa Jeeves

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If you want to see the most beautiful parts of Italy, head to Tuscany. Holiday trips to the Val d'Orcia region will inspire and delight you.

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When you're planning a getaway and you want to go somewhere with a rich history,Exploring the Towns of Val d‘Orcia Articles lots of culture, stunning scenery, an array of towns and villages and a taste of authentic local life, head straight to Tuscany! Holidaymakers visiting the region may already be familiar with cities such as Florence, Sienna and Lucca, but the region also offers an array of hidden gems in and around Val d’Orcia, a beautiful valley in Tuscany. Holiday itineraries that include this stunning region will open you up to a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “agricultural hinterland of Sienna.”

Inscribed in 2004, for its management of Renaissance agricultural landscapes, this region has been the inspiration for numerous artists - today, visiting or staying in the area might just inspire you as well. While you are here, be sure to visit the local towns that are dotted about the Val d’Orcia, including Pienza and Montalcino.

Pienza

Nestled between Montepulciano and Montalcino, Pienza is just one of the area’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Inscribed in 1996, the town of Pienza is a well-preserved example of Renaissance town planning at its best, within and even beyond Tuscany. Holiday here and you'll be able to appreciate how Pope Pius II transformed his hometown (once called Corsignano) into an “ideal town” in the style of Renaissance Humanist concepts.

With the help of architect Bernardo Rossellino, the town was created around the main square, Piazza Pio II. The buildings around the square include the Palazzo Piccolomini, which is the principle residence – it is blessed with amazing views over the Val d’Orcia and a lovely internal court.

The cathedral dominates the centre of the piazza and boasts one of the earliest Renaissance facades. Pope Pius II’s influence (from his time in Germany) can be seen in the cathedral’s bell tower. The Episcopal palace, bought for Cardinal Borgia in 1463, sits on one side of the square, along with the outstanding Palazzo Communale, which was built by Rossellino as a free standing mediator between church and state, and was more of a show than anything else.

Montalcino

If you love a glass of good wine, then you'll no doubt love Val d’Orcia in Tuscany. Holidays here will enable you to visit the town of Montalcino with its wonderful culture and world famous wine. The Brunello di Montalcino is considered to be one of the most prestigious Italian wines, and sampling a variety while you are here is a must.

First mentioned in 814 A.D., Montalcino has a history intricately tied to the violent struggles between Siena and Florence. Take a stroll around the city and you'll see the 13th century walls as well as the fortress, which was built in 1361. Stop by the cathedral as well, which was built in the 14th century, but was renovated with a neo-classical façade in the 19th century. If you time your trip just right, you may get to see the twice-yearly archery contests, where the four segments of the city come together to compete in medieval dress.