Castiglione d'Orcia
Castiglione d'Orcia: a Tuscan gem between history and art
If you are in Tuscany and want to discover a hidden gem, Castiglione d'Orcia is the place for you. A small town with only 2144 inhabitants, located in the province of Siena, in the heart of Val d'Orcia.
Physical geography
Castiglione d'Orcia is located on a hill on the northern slope of Mount Amiata and extends to the medieval centers of Rocca d'Orcia, Campiglia d'Orcia, Vivo d'Orcia, Ripa d'Orcia, and the thermal locality of Bagni San Filippo.
History
The history of the center dates back to 714 when it was still owned by the Aldobrandeschi and was known as ''Petra''. In the thirteenth century, it became a free commune, but its independence lasted no more than a century. Subsequently, it passed under Sienese control, which granted it to powerful families in exchange for financial favors. Castiglione d'Orcia then passed to the Florentines and was entrusted to the Riario family in 1605.
Monuments and places of interest
Castiglione d'Orcia is rich in monuments and places of interest, including numerous Romanesque and Gothic churches, such as the Pieve dei Santi Stefano and Degna, the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, the Church of the Company of St. John the Baptist, and many others. Also, don't miss the Grotta di San Filippo Benizi in Bagni San Filippo and the Hermitage of Vivo.
Civil architecture
In the heart of the village is the Piazza Vecchietta, dedicated to the famous Sienese painter Lorenzo di Pietro, known as Il Vecchietta. The historic Palazzo del Comune overlooks the square, where a Sienese school fresco is preserved.
Military architecture
Castiglione d'Orcia also boasts military monuments, such as the Aldobrandesca Fortress, located on the top of a limestone hill over the Val d'Orcia, and the Tentennano Fortress.
In conclusion, Castiglione d'Orcia is a magical place where history and art blend into a single wonder. A must-visit for those who want to get to know the real Tuscany.
