Piloni
Welcome to Piloni!
Hi there! Today we're talking about Piloni, a hamlet of the municipality of Roccastrada, in the beautiful Tuscany! It's located north of the main town, just a few kilometers from the border of the province of Siena and surrounded by the natural reserves of Farma and La Pietra. This small village is rich in charm and history, and is the ideal place for those seeking relaxation immersed in nature.
Piloni's physical geography
Piloni is located among the hills of Tuscany, in an area rich in Rhyolite quarries. Near the village is also the adjacent village of Torniella, which offers further opportunities to explore the area.
A brief history of Piloni
Piloni was born as a small center of shepherds and lumberjacks during the 18th century, although it did not develop until the 20th century. The village has always had an agricultural, forestry and coal function, and its name may derive from the large stone basins used to water the animals, or from stone work.
In recent years, Piloni has seen an increase in its population thanks to immigrants from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Macedonia.
Monuments and places of interest in Piloni
Although it is a small village, Piloni has a lot to offer:
Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
Located in the main square of the village, Piazza Roma, this church is a gem of local architecture. Built in 1819 by Domenico Bartalucci and his brothers, the church is dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Natural areas
Piloni is located near two important natural reserves: the La Pietra Nature Reserve and the Farma Nature Reserve. These places are perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
Society in Piloni
Piloni has experienced a demographic decline in recent years, going from 348 inhabitants in 1961 to 132 in 2011. Despite this, the village has maintained its traditions and unique folklore, such as the game of Palla 21, still played every spring and summer with the organization of a tournament.
The economy of Piloni
Piloni has been known since 1892 for the presence of lithic deposits used for extracting kaolin, used to produce ceramics and porcelain. The deposit is located in the rhyolitic outcrop east of Mount Alto and is still actively exploited.
Conclusions
Piloni is a quiet and charming corner of Tuscany. With its history, breathtaking views, and pristine nature, this village is a perfect destination for those seeking an escape from the chaos of the city. If you have the chance, take a look at Piloni!
