Orgia
Orgia: a hamlet in the heart of Tuscany
If you're looking for a place rich in history and culture in the heart of Tuscany, you can't miss the hamlet of Orgia, located in the municipality of Sovicille, in the province of Siena.
A millenary history
The history of Orgia dates back to the 7th century, when Countess Matilda of Canossa donated this territory to the bishop of Volterra. Over the centuries, the village developed around its castle, built in 1073 in a strategic position on the road connecting Siena to the Maremma Grossetana.
Throughout the centuries, the castle of Orgia was the subject of disputes between Siena and the Ardengheschi counts of Civitella Marittima. In 1206, it was placed under the control of the imperial vicar resident in San Quirico d'Orcia, until its destruction in 1332 by Pisan troops allied with the people of Massa Marittima.
Today, some traces of the castle ruins can still be seen in the materials used for the construction of the Piccolomini family's Villa Castello.
Monuments and places of interest
If you visit Orgia, you can't miss the Church of San Bartolomeo, the hamlet's parish church, which dates back to the 11th century and was extensively renovated in the 14th and 15th centuries.
For lovers of history and architecture, it's worth visiting the Castle of Capraia, located just south of the village.
A museum to discover peasant life
At the entrance of Orgia, in the Borgolozzi locality, you'll find the Ethnographic Museum of the Woods and Sharecropping. This ethnographic museum offers the opportunity to discover the work in the woods and peasant life in the Val di Merse, through a rich collection of tools and everyday objects.
How to reach Orgia
If you want to visit the hamlet of Orgia, the best option is to reach Siena and then take the SP 73 provincial road southwest. After about 13 kilometers, you'll find Orgia on your right.
Alternatively, you can reach the hamlet by bus thanks to the public transport lines that connect Siena to Sovicille.
Conclusions
Orgia is a small gem in the heart of Tuscany, rich in history and culture. Its church, the castle of Capraia, and the Ethnographic Museum of the Woods are just some of the attractions you can visit during your vacation in the area.
I recommend visiting Orgia if you want to get to know Tuscany better, a timeless land that will never cease to amaze you.
