Discover Monteriggioni: a journey into Middle Ages
Monteriggioni, located just 20 km from Borgo Villa Certano, is one of the most fascinating medieval gems of Tuscany. This fortified village, which stands imposingly on the Sienese hills, offers visitors a unique experience, transporting them back in time, between ancient walls and atmospheres of times gone by.
The history of Monteriggioni
Founded in a period between 1214 and 1219 by the Sienese as a defensive outpost against Florence, Monteriggioni has kept its medieval structure intact. The mighty circular walls, approximately 570 meters long, are dotted with 14 towers which, despite the centuries, still dominate the surrounding landscape. This impressive architecture makes Monteriggioni one of the best examples of medieval fortifications in Italy.
Inside the walls, the village has preserved the appearance and charm of the past. Walking through its narrow, cobbled streets, surrounded by stone buildings and ancient arches, offers an authentic taste of life in the Middle Ages. The main square, Piazza Roma, is the beating heart of the village, with its Romanesque church and the characteristic historic buildings that surround it.
Attractions and activities in Monteriggioni
Monteriggioni is not only a place to admire, but also to experience. During your visit, you can explore the wall walks, which offer spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside and the Chianti hills. This panoramic walk allows you to perceive the strategic importance of the village and enjoy a breathtaking landscape.
An unmissable attraction is the MaM – Archaeological Museum of Monteriggioni, which features an “outside- inside” structure with paneling and outdoor elements that tell the story of the abbey. The two exhibition areas, La Tinaia and Sala Sigerico, offer a journey through time through reconstructions, models, multimedia supports and artefacts, covering a historical span that goes from the Middle Ages to protohistory. The museum is constantly evolving, with rotations of exhibits and educational activities, as well as carrying out research in the area.
Every year, in July, Monteriggioni hosts the famous Medieval Festival, a historical re-enactment that animates the village with period costumes, falconry shows, music and medieval dances. This event attracts visitors from all over the world, offering a unique opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.
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Abbadia Isola: a historical treasure to discover
Abadia Isola is a splendid medieval abbey located near Monteriggioni, in the province of Siena. Founded in 1001, this abbey represents an important example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with its majestic church and monastic buildings surrounding a picturesque cloister. The church, dedicated to Saints Salvatore and Cirino, preserves frescoes and works of art that testify to the rich historical and religious heritage of the region. Visiting Abadia Isola means taking a journey into the past, immersed in a context of extraordinary beauty and tranquility.
Medieval Festival in Monteriggioni
Every year in July, Monteriggioni hosts the famous Medieval Festival, a historical reenactment that animates the village with period costumes, falconry shows, music and medieval dances. This event attracts visitors from all over the world, offering a unique opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.
Gastronomy and typical products
A visit to Monteriggioni can be enriched by a culinary break in one of the many restaurants and trattorias in the village, where you can taste typical dishes of Tuscan cuisine. The restaurants offer a selection of local specialties, such as ribollita, pici, and stewed wild boar, accompanied by fine Chianti wines.
How to reach Monteriggioni from Borgo Villa Certano
Monteriggioni is easily reachable from Borgo Villa Certano in about 20 minutes by car, crossing the evocative landscape of the Sienese hills. The short distance allows you to plan a day-long visit, combining the discovery of the medieval village with a relaxing return to the comfort and tranquility of Borgo Villa Certano.
