Casole d'Elsa
Welcome to Casole d'Elsa: the Tuscan gem
If you're looking for the perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, look no further than Casole d'Elsa. This Tuscan town located in the province of Siena offers an authentic and memorable Tuscan experience.
The geographical location of Casole d'Elsa
The strength of Casole d'Elsa lies in its unique geographical location. The municipal territory mainly occupies the Sienese Montagnola and borders Pomarance in the province of Pisa. A curiosity: the border between these two cities is only 45 meters long.
History of Casole d'Elsa
The municipality of Casole d'Elsa has been known since the 11th century to have been an important stronghold of the Diocese of Volterra in the disputed territory between Volterrani, Senesi, and Florentines. After the Battle of Montaperti (1260), the village was expanded with new fortifications and still retains its toponymic structure today. In the 16th century, Casole d'Elsa became part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany and then of the new Italian State. During World War II, the city suffered severe destruction when the front passed through (July 1944).
Honors
Despite the difficulties caused by the war, Casole d'Elsa has received several honors, such as the gold medal for military valor for partisan resistance in the province of Siena.
What to see in Casole d'Elsa
Religious architectures
Casole d'Elsa has several churches that testify to its historical past. The church of San Niccolò, the collegiate church of Santa Maria Assunta, the church of San Michele Arcangelo in Cavallano, the Pieve dei Santi Maria and Gervasio in Marmoraia, the Pieve di San Giovanni Battista in Mensano, the church of Santi Andrea and Lorenzo in Monteguidi, the Pieve di San Giovanni Battista in Pievescola, and the church of Santa Fiora in Scorgiano are all religious points of interest to visit.
Civil architectures
Moreover, the city also has two noteworthy ancient villas: Villa La Suvera in Pievescola and Villa San Chimento in Scorgiano.
Museums
The Archaeological and Collegiate Museum is a must-see for history lovers. The museum houses an important collection of Etruscan and Roman artifacts, as well as sacred art from the Gothic period.
The society of Casole d'Elsa
The population of the city is around 3,719 inhabitants and also includes a foreign community. According to ISTAT data on December 31, 2010, the foreign population was 397 people, with representatives of Romanian, Albanian, and Macedonian nationalities making up the majority.
The culture of Casole d'Elsa
Casole d'Elsa is a very culturally active city with many events and festivals taking place here. There is a Palio in which six districts participate: Rivellino, Pievalle, Casole Campagna, Il Merlo, Cavallano, and Monteguidi.
The anthropic geography of Casole d'Elsa
Historical subdivisions
The historic center of the city, called Casole Centro, is the most populous part. Here are also the residential areas of Orli and La Corsina.
Fractions
There are four fractions of Casole d'Elsa: Cavallano, Mensano, Monteguidi, and Pievescola. Each has its own personality and offers a different experience.
Other locations in the territory
Other smaller locations in the municipal territory are villages and hamlets, whose ancient and suggestive charm is worth exploring. For example, there are Capannino della Suvera, Lucciana, Il Merlo, La Selva, La Torre, and many others.
Conclusions
Casole d'Elsa is a city that you fall in love with. Not only does it offer the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, but also a historical memory and a unique atmosphere. Come and visit us to experience it for yourself!
