Monticello Amiata
Discover Monticello Amiata: the village between nature and history in Tuscany
Welcome to Monticello Amiata, a hamlet of the municipality of Cinigiano, in the province of Grosseto, located at 734 meters above sea level, at the foot of Monte Amiata. Here, the untouched nature of the Poggio all'Olmo Natural Reserve and the historical-artistic heritage of the medieval village come together to give visitors unique emotions. Let's discover together the geography, history, and monuments of Monticello Amiata.
Physical geography of Monticello Amiata
Monticello Amiata is located in the hilly area that marks the transition from the Ombrone valley to the massif of Monte Amiata, about 50 kilometers from Grosseto and just over 9 kilometers from the municipal capital. Its panoramic position and mild climate, typical of the area, make Monticello Amiata an ideal place to enjoy nature and silence.
History of Monticello Amiata: between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance
Monticello Amiata has ancient origins, as demonstrated by the diploma of Conrad II the Salic in 1027, but nothing remains of the ancient high-medieval village, destroyed by a fire in 1240. The new village was rebuilt by the inhabitants of Montepinzutolo with the name of ''Monticlo'' and in 1261 became an autonomous municipality. In the XIV century, it came under the protection of Siena, and two centuries later, it passed under the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. In 1783, it lost its autonomy and was merged into Cinigiano.
Monuments and places of interest of Monticello Amiata
Monticello Amiata is a jewel of art and culture immersed in nature. Among the religious monuments, the Church of San Michele Arcangelo stands out, which dates back to the fire of 1240 and was renovated in the nineteenth century in neoclassical style. Inside, numerous works of art are preserved, such as the canvas of Saint Charles Borromeo in prayer by Rutilio Manetti or Bartolomeo Neroni del Riccio's panel, with the Madonna and Child on a throne crowned by angels with Saint Lawrence and Saint Anthony the Abbot worshiping. The Oratory of the Company of San Sebastiano, dating back to the fifteenth century, is also a testament to Monticello Amiata's religious past.
For those looking for spirituality and inner peace, the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Val di Prata, located just outside the village, is a must-see. Here, it is possible to admire the altar-piece of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Saint Teresa of Avila, Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Saint Philip Neri, and Saint Helena attributed to Giuseppe Nicola Nasini. But Monticello Amiata is not only a place of worship. The castle of Montepinzutolo, completely destroyed by the fire of 1240, is an exciting page of medieval history, while the territory around the village offers numerous opportunities for excursions and trekking.
Curiosities about Monticello Amiata
Monticello Amiata has a particular curiosity: in 1348, it received an excommunication due to insubordinations regarding the double payment of taxes to the Abbey of San Salvatore and Siena. Despite the centuries passed, this excommunication has never been formally withdrawn.
Monticello Amiata, therefore, represents an enchanting place to visit, where nature and history come together to offer an unforgettable experience. Come and discover this medieval village in Tuscany and let yourself be conquered by its beauty and authenticity. Are you ready to leave?
