Civitella in Val di Chiana
Civitella in Val di Chiana: A Charming Place
Civitella in Val di Chiana is a town located in the province of Arezzo, in Tuscany. With its 8787 inhabitants, it is a scattered Municipality and is located on top of a hill over 500 m above sea level, about 15 km southwest of Arezzo. The municipal area extends from Monte San Savino to the south, to the first municipalities of the Valdarno, Laterina to the northeast, Bucine and Pergine to the northwest.
The landscape of Civitella is characterized by the presence of two areas: a mountainous one, in which the town of Civitella stands, covered with woods and constituting an offshoot of the Tuscan Hills, and a flat one mainly composed of the northern part of the Val di Chiana, where the most populous fractions of the municipality such as Badia al Pino, Pieve al Toppo, Tegoleto, and Viciomaggio are located.
The History of Civitella in Val di Chiana
Civitella in Val di Chiana has been inhabited since Roman times. Throughout its history, the city has been the scene of numerous conflicts and devastations. In the thirteenth century, Civitella was destroyed, but it was rebuilt by the will of the bishop of Arezzo Guglielmino degli Ubertini. Afterwards, the city was taken by Florence but returned under the control of Arezzo in 1311. Over time, Civitella has experienced many vicissitudes, including the siege of Siena in 1554, which was successfully repelled by the Civitellini.
The Geography of Civitella in Val di Chiana
Civitella in Val di Chiana is in a privileged position, on the Tuscan hills, at 500 m above sea level. Due to the depopulation of mountainous areas, the fractions located in the flat area of the territory now have a greater population than that of the historic center of Civitella. However, despite the population shifting towards the larger fractions, the city has maintained its ancient name in honor of the original country.
The flat area of Civitella is intensively cultivated and hosts numerous vineyards and olive groves, where the famous Chianti wine of the Aretine Hills is produced. The mountainous area of Civitella is covered by forests and represents an important natural resource of the area.
What to See in Civitella in Val di Chiana
Civitella in Val di Chiana is a town rich in history and culture. Its historic center, which extends on the top of the hill, comprises numerous testimonies of medieval architecture. The Lombard fortress, the castle and the city walls are still visible today and constitute one of the symbols of the city.
In the territory of Civitella, there are also numerous museums and churches worth visiting. Among these, we can mention the church of Santa Maria della Neve, the Museum of Ceramics of Montelupo, the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art of Arezzo, and the Tower of Stones.
Civitella in Val di Chiana also offers numerous opportunities for nature lovers. The surrounding hills and valleys are perfect for hiking or cycling to discover the local flora and fauna.
The Gastronomy of Civitella in Val di Chiana
The cuisine of Civitella is based on typical local products, particularly meat products, such as game and pork meat, as well as vegetable and cheese products. Among the typical dishes of the Civitellina culinary tradition, we remember the ribollita, the florentine, the pici cacio e pepe, and the tagliatelle with hare sauce.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Civitella in Val di Chiana is a municipality of the province of Arezzo, in Tuscany, which still preserves the testimonies of its ancient history and culture. With an enchanting landscape, picturesque fractions, museums, and churches, Civitella in Val di Chiana represents an unmissable destination for those who want to discover the true Tuscany.
