Marciano della Chiana
Marciano della Chiana: a small town immersed in nature
If you are looking for a quiet place in Tuscany, away from the chaos of the city, where you can relax and enjoy nature, Marciano della Chiana might be the right choice for you. Located southwest of Arezzo, the town has a population of 3,434 inhabitants and is immersed in the hills of Val di Chiana.
Physical geography
Marciano della Chiana is located on a hill at 320 meters above sea level, surrounded by the municipalities of Monte San Savino, Castiglion Fiorentino, Foiano della Chiana, and Lucignano. The municipal territory is mainly hilly, with slopes that slope down towards the alluvial plain crossed by the Canale Maestro della Chiana. In the countryside, there are many fields of cereals, vineyards, and olive groves.
Climate
The climate in Marciano della Chiana is typically Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and cool but not too harsh winters. Average temperatures throughout the year range from 9.4 °C in January to 30.9 °C in July. The minimum temperatures throughout the year range from -1.9°C in January to 0.7°C in December.
History
Like many towns in Val di Chiana, Marciano has a history that dates back to ancient times. It is thought that the area was already inhabited in Etruscan times, as evidenced by the numerous artifacts found in the area. During Roman times, the area was subject to the influence of Chiusi, and many agricultural estates arose in the region.
Over the centuries, human settlement in the area remained firm, also thanks to the presence of the castle of Cesa, mentioned in a document from 1008 as belonging to the bishop of Arezzo. The village of Marciano is first mentioned in an inventory from 1084, where it is included among the assets of the Abbey of San Quirico alle Rose. The area then underwent marshland in Val di Chiana, which led to the migration of the population to the hilly areas.
Sightseeing
In addition to being immersed in nature, Marciano della Chiana also offers some attractions of historical and cultural interest. The Torso di Marciano is one of the most important Etruscan artifacts found in the area and is exhibited in the Archaeological Civic Museum of Arezzo along with other works. The castle of Cesa, of which only some vestiges remain today, is another example of the historical heritage of Marciano.
The village itself is of interest, with its small cobbled streets, stone houses, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista. In the immediate vicinity, you can visit the village of Lucignano, famous for its elliptical shape and the Church of San Francesco.
Typical cuisine
The cuisine of Marciano della Chiana reflects Tuscan tradition, with many dishes based on meat, pasta, and olive oil. The most famous first courses are pappardelle al cinghiale and tagliatelle al sugo di lepre. The second courses are based on meats such as pork and wild boar, with dishes such as bistecca alla fiorentina and stufato di maiale.
Olive oil is also a common ingredient in the cuisine of Marciano, thanks to the presence of olive groves in the area.
How to get there
Marciano della Chiana can be reached by car from Arezzo, following the provincial road 21 towards the southwest. The nearest airport is Florence, about 90 kilometers away. Alternatively, there are trains that connect Arezzo to the main Italian cities. From the Arezzo train station, you can take a bus to Marciano della Chiana.
