Your life in town

Montepulciano: history & sights: A brief history of Montepulciano
The name of Montepulciano derives from Latin Mons and Publicianus (Mount of Publicianus). According to legend, it was founded by the Etruscan King Porsenna of Chiusi; recent findings prove that a settlement was already in existence in the 4th-3rd centuries BC. In Roman times it was the seat of a garrison guarding the main roads of the area. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, it developed as a religious center under the Lombards.
In the 12th century, because of its richness and its strategic position in control of both the Chiana and the Orcia valleys, Montepulciano was repeatedly attacked by the Republic of Siena, which the Poliziani faced with the help of Perugia, Orvieto and sometimes Florence. The 14th century was characterized by constant struggles between the local noble families, until the Del Pecora family became rulers of the town.
From 1390, Montepulciano was a loyal ally (and later possession) of Florence and, until mid-16th century, lived a period of splendour with architects such as Michelozzo, Sangallo the Elder, Vignola, Peruzzi, Scalza and others, building luxurious residences and other edifices here. In 1559, when Siena was conquered by Florence, Montepulciano lost its strategic role and its importance declined.
After the unification of Italy and the drying of the Val di Chiana, the town remained the most important agricultural centre in the area, while the industrial activities moved mostly next to Chiusi, which was nearer to the railroad being built in that period.
Main sights
The position on a steep hill and the typical Medieval city plan are illuminated by numerous Renaissance buildings, reason for which a Medieval city like Montepulciano is called the Pearl of the 16th century! This truly unique mix gives Montepulciano a very special atmosphere. The main street stretches for 1.5 kilometers from the Porta al Prato to the Piazza Grande at the top of the hill. The city is renowned for its walkable, car-almost free nature.

1. The Medieval Porta al Prato was transformed in 1511 by Sangallo the Elder and included in the new walls of the city wanted by the Grand Duke of Florence Cosimo de' Medici.
2. The Marzocco column (photo) symbolizes the authority of Florence since 1511 when the lion replaced the Siena's she-wolf. The Palazzo Avignonesi and Palazzo Tarugi are 16th century Renaissance buildings, both attributed to Vignola. At the very left end of the square is the 18th century Convento di San Bernardo, designed by Andrea Pozzo, one of the masters of the late Italian Baroque period.
3. Palazzo Buccelli was owned by an antique collector that walled in the façade Etruscan cinerary urns and stones with Etruscan and Roman inscriptions. On the opposite side is the Palazzo Cocconi Del Pecora, attributed to Sangallo the Elder.
4. The church of Sant'Agostino was built in 1285 and renovated in the 15th century by Michelozzo in a late Gothic/early Renaissance style. The internal has been rebuilt at the end of the 18th century. In front of the church is the clock tower (1524) with a statue of Pulcinella (a Napolitan character of the Commedia dell'Arte) that strikes the hours.
5. The Logge del Grano, once open market venue, is a large threefold arcade attributed to Vignola.
6. Palazzo Cervini is attributed to Sangallo the Younger. It was built for Marcello II Cervini, pope for only 28 days in 1555.
7. Palazzo Cagnoni Grugni is attributed to Vignola.
8. The church of Gesù (1689-1733) was designed by Andrea Pozzo. The façade is unfinished.
9. At the n°1 of via del Poliziano is the native house of Angelo Ambrogini, said Il Poliziano (1454-1494), humanist, philologist, philosoph and the most important Italian poet of the 15th century. He is considered as the inventor of the modern theater being his Orfeo the first profane play of the modern era, many centuries after the antique Greek and Roman plays.
10. The city theater was build in 1793 by the Accademia degli Intrigati, a literary and cultural society animated by the local bourgeoisie.
11. The medieval church of Santa Maria dei Servi is a 14th century building but the tower bell and the interior have been redesigned by Andrea Pozzo in Baroque style at the begining of the 18th century. The church holds a Madonna col Bambino by Duccio di Buoninsegna.
12. The fortress was built in 1261 and was destroyed and rebuilt several times during the Middle-Ages. It suffered a complete transformation in school at the end of the 19th century.
13. The Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall - photo) was built between the end of the 14th and the begining of the 15th century. The façade (1424) was designed by Michelozzo in the tradition of the Palazzo della Signoria (Palazzo Vecchio) of Florence. Noteworthy is the Medieval courtyard with a cistern and two loggias. From the top of the tower, the 360° view on the town and the countryside is breathtaking.
14. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, or Duomo of Montepulciano, was designed by Ippolito Scalza and constructed between 1594 and 1680 on a pre-existing Medieval Pieve to celebrate the elevation of Montepulciano to bishop's see. The façade is unfinished (façade projects can be seen in the museum). The bell tower (unfinished) is still the Medieval one. The Cathedral holds several masterpieces: the Assumption of the Virgin triptych painted by Taddeo di Bartolo in 1401; Michelozzo's Aragazzi funeral monument (1427-1437) which fragments can be seen close to the main door and at the altar (two statues and the frieze with little angels); the Madonna del Pilastro by Sano di Pietro (15th century); the polychrome terracotta altar by Andrea della Robbia (1521) behind a 14th century baptismal font.
15. Palazzo Del Monte (today Contucci) was started in 1519 by Sangallo the Elder for the Pope Julius III and probably completed (from the fisrt floor upwards) by Baldassare Peruzzi.
16. Palazzo Nobili (today Tarugi) is attributed to Sangallo the Elder or Vignola (early 16th century). On the left is the Renaissance well (1520) with two Florence's lions and two Montepulciano's griffins supporting the Medici coat-of-arms, attributed to Sangallo, similar to the well in front of San Biagio. Behind the well is the Gothic Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo.
17. The Civic Museum is in the Gothic Palazzo Neri Orselli and holds art collections that help to understand better the local history.
18. Palazzo Ricci is attributed to Baldassare Peruzzi (16th century). Since 2002 it is the venue of the European Academy of Music and Performing Arts, a branch of the German High School of Music of Cologne.
19. Palazzo Benincasa has a bust of Gian Gastone de' Medici in the portal. Few meters ahead is the church of San Francesco (13th century) with a Gothic portal and the remains of a pulpit from which San Bernardino is said to have preached. From there you can enjoy breathtaking view on the countryside, particularly at sunset.
20. The Baroque church of Santa Lucia (1653 - photo), designed by Flaminio del Turco, holds a painting by Signorelli (Madonna in trono col bambino). On the left of Santa Lucia is the Medieval Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista in Poggiolo (13th century).
21. The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio, just outside the city, is one of Italy's Renaissance masterpieces. It was designed between 1518 and 1545 by Sangallo the Elder on a pre-existing Pieve where, according to tradition, a painting of Our Lady was seen moving the eyes. The church was consecrated by Pope Clement VII in 1529. In front of the church are Sangallo's rectory of San Biagio and the beautiful well, similar to the one in Piazza Grande.
22. The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie (2 kms from Montepulciano) was designed by Ippolito Scalza (late 16th century). It has a simple Mannerist façade with a three-arcade portico. The 18th century interior holds a precious terracotta altar by Andrea della Robbia and a rare 17th century organ with cyprus wood pipes.
About Montepulciano's wines: Nobile di Montepulciano D.O.C.G.
True symbol of Montepulciano, the Vino Nobile is today one of the most prestigious and awarded wines in the world and represents, with tourism, the most important economic activity of the area. Four million of bottles are produced by sixty-five wineries on 670 hectares of vineyards, all on the territory of the municipality of Montepulciano. The first appellation (D.O.C. - Denominazione di Origine Controllata) dates back to 1966; in 1980 the Vino Nobile was the first Italian wine to obtain the top quality D.O.C.G. label (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita).
Grapes: sangiovese (prugnolo gentile) minimum 70%, canaiolo nero up to 20% and a maximum of 20% of other grapes among those registered and/or authorized for the province of Siena.
Ageing: the Nobile is submitted to a period of ageing of minimum 2 years, leaving to the producer the choice among the following options: a) 24 months in wood barrels, b) 18 months minimum in wood barrel and the remaining months in other containers, or c) 12 months minimum in wood barrels plus 6 months minimum in bottle and the remaining months in other containers. The Nobile Riserva is submitted to a longer period of ageing (at least 3 years with the last 6 months in bottle) and must have a level of alcohol of at least 13% (versus 12,5% for the Nobile).
Sight: intense garnet red colour.
Smell: very intense, very persistent, fruity (mature red fruits) floral (withered violets) slightly ethereal, spicy (pepper, vanilla).
Taste: dry, pungent, very warm, tannic taste, full bodied, well balanced, pleasant final bitter sensation.
Food accompaniment: grilled beef and pork with sauces, game, aged cheeses.
Serving temperature: 18-20° C.
Recommended wine glass: glass for full bodied tannic red wine.
Best period for drinking: within four or five years from the grape harvest (six or seven years for the Riserva and ten years or more for the best years).
Best years since 1945: the absolute best is 1999. The years judged excellent (*****) are 1958, 1970, 1975, 1985, 1988, 1990, 1995, 1997, 2006, 2007, while the years judged very good (****) are 1947, 1952, 1954, 1962, 1964, 1968, 1973, 1977, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1986, 1991, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2008.
Rosso di Montepulciano D.O.C.
The Rosso di Montepulciano is recognized as DOC since 1988. It is made of the same grapes as the Nobile: sangiovese (prugnolo gentile) minimum 70%, canaiolo nero up to 20% and a maximum of 20% of other grapes among those registered and/or authorized for the province of Siena. The Rosso di Montepulciano cannot be put on sale before March of the year following the harvest. This bright and brilliant ruby red wine has an intense smell with traces of violet and a dry taste, harmonious and slightly tannic. It is recommended especially with meals. It should be served at a temperature of 16° C, in a wine glass for full bodied tannic red wine.
Vinsanto di Montepulciano D.O.C.
This dessert wine is recognized as D.O.C. since 1996. The Vinsanto and Vinsanto Riserva are made with minimum 70% of Malvasia bianca, Grechetto bianco and/or Trebbiano toscano grapes and a maximum of 30% of other white grapes among those registered and/or authorized for the province of Siena. The Vinsanto Occhio di Pernice must contain a minimum of 50% of sangiovese (prugnolo gentile) and a maximum of 50% of other white grapes among those registered and/or authorized for the province of Siena.
The ageing rules follow the traditional method for grape drying and Vinsanto ageing that must happen in wood barrels with a maximum capacity of 300 liters for the Vinsanto, 125 liters for the Vinsanto Riserva and 75lt for the Vinsanto Occhio di Pernice. The minimum period of ageing is set respectively at 3, 5 and 8 years. Wine colour varies from golden yellow to intense amber. The smell is intense, perfumed, ethereal, of mature fruit. It has a velvety taste, with intense roundness. It should be served as a dessert wine, at a temperature of 16°C.
Wine cellars & wine tasting
There are several wine cellars in the historic heart of Montepulciano, all worth visiting not only for the high quality of the wines but also for their historical and architectural value.
1. Redi - This beautiful cellar, obtained from a pre-existing medieval structure, can be considered as a true Temple of Wine. The main hall (photo) is divided into three longitudinal aisles by huge pillars (6,70m high), supporting round arches and groin vaults. Such large spaces and massive proportions, combined with an accurate ventilation, permit to keep the wine at a constant degree of temperature and humidity, ideal condition through the year round.
2. Contucci - The Palazzo Contucci basement, dating back to the 13th century as part of the first ring of the city walls, contains one of the most interesting historic cellars in town. The wine, cared in the last fifty years by a most capable cellerman, is laid out on three levels and offers a fine sight to visitors.
3. Gattavecchi - This is a traditional producer of Vino Nobile with a very interesting cellar located in the 12th century basement of the church of Santa Maria dei Servi.
4. Crociani - This winery is known for its warm hospitality in its very interesting cellar where a long Etruscan or Medieval tunnel has been recently discovered.
5. Pulcino - La Città Sotterranea - This is a suggestive and surprising wine cellar located in the very extended Medieval basement of a Renaissance building.
6. Pulcino - La Porta di Bacco - It is worth visiting the Vinsanto cellar and to understand better the local rural culture and food, especially the pecorino cheese.
7. Fanetti - Fanetti is the "inventor" of the name Nobile for the top quality Montepulciano wine (1921) and is the first Italian winery that has received the D.O.C.G. label just after its creation (1980).
To visit the many other wineries and cellars that are out of town, please refer to the well done Strada del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano website. You will be spoilt for choice as there are many wineries offering visits and tasting. Try as much brands as you can and follow your taste. Our preferred picks? Nobile Asinone by Poliziano, Nobile Mulinvecchio by Contucci and Nobile Vigna del Nocio by Poderi Boscarelli but these preferences are highly subjective...
Local food specialities: Extra virgin olive oil

The olive oil is a fundamental ingredient of the Mediterranean diet and a very traditional high quality product of the Sienese hills. Here, the olive trees grow between 300 and 600 metres of altitude, where the environmental conditions make the anti-parasite treatments unnecessary. The trees are cultivated in an extensive way to give them the maximum space. To get the best possible oil and to keep its acidity at the lowest level: a) the harvest is made when the olives are still not completely mature so the harvesters must collect them by hand in an operation called brucatura, stripping; b) the olives are brought to the mill every day after the picking and the oil is extracted from the olives only by mechanical pressure and at cold temperature. The extra virgin olive oil can be consumed raw (for example in pinzimonio, as a dressing for salads or vegetables, in the traditional Tuscan soups or, of course, on the classic bruschetta) as well as in cooking and frying (among all commonly used unrefined vegetable oils, the extra virgin olive oil has the highest smoke point at around 210°C/410°F).

We own an olive grove with around 1000 trees and produce a superb extra virgin olive oil called Santolivo that has received the DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) Terre di Siena in 2011. This is a quality label given to those few extra virgin olive oils produced on the Sienese hills that meet several severe quality requirements. To know more, please visit Santolivo website.
Pecorino cheese
The goodness of the pecorino comes from the kind of sheep (Sardinian sheep), the way the sheep are bred (almost wild in herd), the particular type of pasture (made of grass rich of aromatic herbs for a tasty milk) and the antique techniques of production. There are many types of pecorino: fresh or matured, with truffle or pepper, aged in ash or in walnut leaves. Every year, during the first weekend of September, Pienza organizes a Cheese Festival to celebrate its pecorino.
Susina plum and jam
The susina plum is a less known but equally exquisite speciality of Montepulciano. The indigenous wild plum variety is called mascina and has a characteristic elongated shape and a very pronounced and sweet taste. A single susino tree produces a considerable quantity of fruits in the hottest period of the year (August). The local plum jam and conserve production is important. The fruit is pitted, put in an oven to eliminate excessive humidity and then cooked in a pot over a low flame with sugar added (in the jam, maximum 10 to 20%) or even without sugar (in the conserve). Nothing else is added.
Chianina beef
In Val di Chiana from which they take their name, the Chianina has been bred for more than 22 centuries. This splendid animal has been portrayed on many Etruscan and Roman frescoes. The Chianina is the world biggest bovine, known for its juicy meat, rich in protein and low in fat and cholesterol. For centuries the famous bistecca alla fiorentina, a Chianina t-bone steak cooked over the coals, has delighted the table of the gourmets. To breed the Chianina is difficult: to guarantee a top quality meat, every adult specimen needs at least one hectare of free pasture, reason for which the number of breedings is decreasing year after year and the Chianina breed is considered today at serious risk of extinction.
Cinta Senese pig
The Cinta is a medium size black skin pig with a characteristic pink and white belt (cinta means belt) and a long and narrow snout. It is an ancient local breed of pig (the only Tuscan one that has survived) and is absolutely typical of the area. It is quite rare as it is difficult to breed. Infact, due to a metabolism slower than usual for a pig and a consequently higher percentage of fat they cannot be bred in stall but must grow free in the forests where they eat grass, tubers, roots and acorns. The Cinta hams, salamis or lards are therefore very tasty and extremely appreciated.
Pici
The Pici represent an authentic traditional dish of the rural culture of the Val d’Orcia and the southern part of the Siena province. It has long survived as a local home-made sunday dish before being discovered by the public in the mid sixties. It is a kind of tasty thick pasta, made of flour, salt and water, ideal with sauces that remain sticked to the pici.
White truffles from the Crete Senesi
The truffle season goes from September to December. Truffles are the speciality of San San Giovanni d’Asso, a small village between Siena and Montepulciano, where almost half of the 300 inhabitants are truffle hunters or truffle experts. These small, perfumed and very expensive tubers have a spherical shape and grow only in soft and light soils. The search for truffles is made with truffle dogs, cross-breed dogs especially trained to that purpose. Every year in November, San Giovanni d'Asso organizes a White Truffle Festival.
Saffron
The saffron is a spice that is derived from the very thin red stigma filaments of the Crocus sativus, a bulb planted at the end of August that flowers and is harvested between September and October. It has been produced in the province of Siena since the 13th century. Saffron is a luxury product, whose cost reflects its particular processing, entirely hand-made, from harvest to drying and packing. It is generally sold in very small sachets of filaments or of powder of an intense yellow colour.
Bread
The Tuscan bread, not much salty, is ideal to accompany the intense tastes of the local cold cuts and cheeses.
Biscuits & cakes
Cantucci - They are typical Tuscan biscuits with almonds (photo, right), ideal to accompany the Vinsanto.
Crogetti - They are the classical biscuits of Carnival, made everywhere in Italy and known with hundreds of different names. You will find them fried in oil or oven-baked.
Panforte - It is a very dense and chewy spiced bread with honey, walnuts, almonds, dry fruits and candied fruit (photo, left). White or with chocolate, it is one of the gastronomic symbols of Siena and a typical Christmas sweet, even if it is possible to find it all the year round.
Pan dei Santi - Produced only in the second half of October before the All Saints' Day, the Pan dei Santi (Saints' bread) is a soft spiced cake with walnuts and dryed raisins.
Chocolate
Several cities claim to be the Italian capital of chocolate, Perugia is one of them. We don't know if this is true or not but the most important European chocolate fiesta - Eurochocolate - organized in Perugia every year is a must-go event for the chocolate lovers (second half of October).
Dining out: Montepulciano
Among the many restaurants in town, here is our personal selection:
1. Osteria Acquacheta - The Italian word osteria means an informal kind of restaurant where you can find simple service but great food. And the Osteria Acquacheta, since more than a decade one of the favourite Montepulciano's restaurants for both locals and visitors, offers a hearty food where quality comes before presentation. ☎ 0578.758.443.
2. Trattoria di Cagnano - A typical Italian trattoria with a small summer patio on the main street. ☎ 0578.758.757.
3. Caffè Poliziano - A coffee-bar and restaurant at lunch, the Caffè Poliziano is an authentic Art-Déco structure opened in 1868. It is classified among the 100 Italian historic cafés. Its balcony offers a superb view over the Chiana Valley and the lakes - The restaurant Il Grifon d'Oro is at the lower level and has a pleasant terrace with view over the countryside. ☎ 0578.758.615.
4. Le Logge del Vignola - The use of seasonal raw material is at the base of their cooking style, whereas the prevailing use of local products enables them to blend traditional recipes with a new and modern taste. ☎ 0578.717.290.
5. Borgo Buio - An attractive restaurant, built in the cellars of a noble 16th century building, where the impressive vaults still support the upper five floors. ☎ 0578.717.497.
6. La Briciola - Nice restaurant and pizzeria (both at lunch and at dinner) with a small summer patio in a very characteristic small street of Montepulciano. The new owner and his family are a guarantee of quality food and warm service. ☎ 0578.716.903.
7. Diva & Maceo - Well-established trattoria of Montepulciano with a rich local and traditional cuisine and reasonable prices. Many good reviews on Slow Travel. ☎ 0578.716-951.
8. La Grotta - Located just in front of the Church of San Biagio, this 16th century restaurant has large vaulted rooms and a pleasant, shadowy garden which offers a romantic view of the church dome and the bell tower. ☎ 0578.757.607.
Valiano di Montepulciano
Piccola Trattoria Guastini - A nice trattoria with a panoramic summer terrace in this little village close to Montepulciano, with excellent home made pasta, bread and sweets and the genuine Chianina meat. ☎ 0578.724.006. Closed on Tuesday at lunchtime and on Wednesday.
Pienza
Latte di Luna - Thanks to a long and thorough experience, simple dishes are here transformed into true refined recipes. During the hot season, it is possible to dine in a little square just outside the restaurant, protected by parasols and refreshed by a thick pot-plant vegetation. ☎ 0578.748.606.
Monticchiello
La Porta - The tavern is located by the city gate of Monticchiello, a charming medieval village. With its limited number of seats, it offers a comfortable and familiar environment, tastefully furnished in the typical tuscan style. During the good season it is possible to take meals in the terrace, thus enjoying a wonderful view over Pienza, the Orcia Valley and Mount Amiata. ☎ 0578.755.163.
Montefollonico
La Botte Piena - Set in the romantic village of Montefollonico, this welcoming tavern (photo) offers a large variety of simple but tasty Tuscan dishes. ☎ 0577.669.481.
Lago di Chiusi
Il Pesce d’Oro - Set on the Lago di Chiusi shore, this well known restaurant offers an interesting range of menus based on fresh lake fishes. Authentic treats, the dishes can be presented in their traditional form or in a more intriguing version for the unexpected use of ingredients. ☎ 0578.21.403.
Sinalunga
La Locanda dell'Amorosa - The Amorosa is not only a luxury hotel occupying an entire small medieval village, it is also a wine-bar and a restaurant (photo), which cuisine is inspired by both Tuscan and Mediterranean traditions. The wine selection is outstanding. ☎ 0577.677.211.
Grocery shopping: All grocery shops are easy to find: excluding the supermarket and the bakery, all are in the main street at very short distance of the Appartamenti in Borgo! Here are our preferred picks:
1. Conad supermarket: the only supermarket of Montepulciano; wide assortment and competitive prices; quality cheeses and cold cuts at the counter and fair selection of local wines if you do not have time to shop around. Open from monday through saturday until 19h00 (until 20h00 during the summer) - Via Elio Bernabei, 4
2. Toniolo and La Bottega Minimarket: two small shops with a bit of everything at a short distance of the apartments. A convenient alternative to the supermarket.
3. Le Rughe, bread & biscuits: the fresh bread (not much salty as we like here!) is irresistible as well as the Cantucci (Tuscan biscuits with almonds, delicious with a glass of Vinsanto). If you are in Montepulciano in the second half of October, do not miss the Pan dei Santi (Saints' bread), a spiced cake with walnuts and dryed raisins.
4. Il Canestro, fruits & vegetables: wide assortment of fresh fruit and vegetables, mostly local and in season. If you are lucky, you will find fresh wild porcini, a brown and giant mushroom that grows under the oaks. Also try the local cold cuts: among the bests in the area.
5. Cugusi, cheese & olive oil: this is the store of one of the top quality Pecorino sheep's cheese producers of the region. Try it fresh or matured, with truffle or pepper, aged in ash or in walnut leaves. Try it with a glass of Nobile. Paradise is sometimes on earth... Cugusi has also a good assortment of local olive oils and wines.
6. Macelleria del Corso, butcher shop: the Tuscan meat is the best in Italy and its quality is highly protected. Two suggestions only if you like meat: the Fiorentina con l'osso (a very large grilled t-bone beef steak), possibly of Chianina meat (the top quality beef that takes its name from the Chiana valley) and, on the other extreme, the very simple but tasty salsicce (sausages).
7. La Madia, not only for sunday shopping: a very small shop selling basic products like bread, cheese, cold cuts, milk, coffee, wine, pasta etc... The Parma ham is probably the best in town, as well as the fresh Pici pasta. Always open on sunday morning when both the supermarket and the bakery are closed.

Last but not least, the wine... You will be spoilt for choice as there are many shops in town. Try as much brands as you can and follow your taste. Our preferred picks? Nobile Asinone by Poliziano, Nobile Mulinvecchio by Contucci and Nobile Vigna del Nocio by Poderi Boscarelli but these preferences are highly subjective... For more information and links, have a look at our wine section.
Handicraft, fairs & open markets: Montepulciano
Several talented craftsmen work in Montepulciano. Curiously, all of them have their workshop in the same street: via dell'Opio nel Corso, between the church of Gesù and the native house of Il Poliziano. So, at a short distance from each other, you will encounter among others:
✔ Aliseda, a goldsmith, with an incredibly equipped workshop and beautiful gold jewels;
✔ a mosaic maker (photo), specialized in wide religious mosaics for churches and in small mosaics with picturesque views of Montepulciano; his collection of small pieces of Murano coloured glass is impressive;
✔ Fare Arte, a water-colour and pottery painter, able like no one to reproduce on paper and pottery the magic of the Tuscan colours and landscapes;
✔ Mazzetti, one of the very few coppersmiths still working in Italy, with a shop surprisingly rich in old and new copper objects and an extremely interesting workshop (located close to the theater);
✔ Arnaldo Frassinetti, an inlayer, with beautiful marquetry works.
Weekly market: it takes place every thursday morning, close to the bus station.
Fair of the 1st of May: a most popular trade show, lasting the whole day and spreading through the entire town.
Arezzo
Fiera Antiquaria: this monthly event is well known in Italy not only for its commercial importance, but also for the natural beauty of its ‘stage’ - the historic centre of Arezzo. During the first Sunday of every month and the preceding Saturday, objects of all kind can be found - antiques and modern collecting, pottery, clocks and watches, pieces of furniture, etc.
Arezzo is also the Italian capital of gold, with more than 300 companies specialized in gold work and almost 100 gold shops in town.
Montalcino
Jazz & Wine Festival: in July, the beautiful 14th century fortress is used as a stage for national and international jazz players… and for wine tasting.
International Honey Fair: beekeeping products (honey, wax, etc.) are presented during the first Sunday of September and the preceding Saturday.
Pienza
Cheese Festival: on the first weekend of September, a true celebration of the famous pecorino di Pienza sheep cheese.
On the road from Montepulciano to Pienza, there are two talented craftsmen worth to visit: on the left side a terracotta pottery maker; on the opposite side, a wrought iron maker. Both have a large showroom with a surprisingly wide variety of items on sale.
Radicofani
Medieval Pageantry: on the last weekend of July, costume events and tasting of medieval dishes.
San Giovanni d’Asso
White Truffle Festival: set in the undergrounds of the 14th century castle of St. Giovanni d’Asso, the precious tuber trade show takes place in November.
In all the Crete Senesi area around San Giovanni d'Asso and up to Asciano, you will encounter many terracotta pottery makers: this is a traditional local handicraft possible thanks to the clay soils of the area.
Asciano
Pottery Market: every second Sunday of each month, a wide range of biological products can be found in the village’s historic centre, such as oil, honey, jams & marmelades, truffles and perfumed or medicinal herbs; as well as local handicraft, wicker baskets, wrought iron, pottery and copperware.
San Quirico d’Orcia
Oil Festival: tasting of the highly qualified tuscan oil and other products. First weekend of December.
Perugia
Eurochocolate: Several cities claim to be the Italian capital of chocolate, Perugia is one of them. We don't know if this is true or not but the most important European chocolate fiesta organized there every year is a must-go event for the chocolate lovers. Second half of October.
Music & theatre: Montepulciano
Cantiere Internazionale d'Arte - The Cantiere takes place in the second half of July with a rich program of classical and contemporary music events in several theaters, churches and private palaces of Montepulciano. Founded in 1976 by the German composer Hans Werner Henze together with the municipality of Montepulciano, the Cantiere has to be considered as a workshop for young artists, that gives all participants every opportunity to learn and rehearse classical and contemporary scores and to experiment with traditional and new ways of making music. In order to foster the atmosphere of a true workshop and educational experience, all artists are guests of the local community and none of them receive a fee.
Europäische Akademie für Musik und Darstellende Kunst - Since 2002, Palazzo Ricci is the venue of the European Academy of Music and Performing Arts, a branch of the German High School of Music of Cologne. From March through October, the Academy organizes master classes and classical and contemporary music concerts.
Teatro Poliziano - It hosts a theatre winter season and some of the summer events within the Cantiere Internazionale d’Arte (photo).
Il CantinoneArte Teatri - A theatre and exhibition hall, situated in the ancient basement of the 16th century Convent of San Girolamo.
La Foce (Chianciano)
Incontri in Terra di Siena - With its 20 years of activity, this Chamber Music Festival is now recognized as one of the best and most refined in Tuscany. It takes place in the last decade of July.
Monticchiello
Festival del Teatro Povero - Every year in the second half of July and the first half of August, the inhabitants of Monticchiello perform a play written by themselves, referring to local events and framed in the magic scenery of this fascinating Val d'Orcia medieval village.
Sarteano
Sarteano Jazz & Blues - This three day event takes place during the last weekend of June, with the best Italian jazz and blues musicians.
Montalcino
Jazz & Wine Festival - In July, the beautiful 14th century fortress is used as a stage for national and international jazz players… and for wine tasting.
Siena
Accademia Chigiana - The concert season Micat in Vertice is held from October to April while the Settimana Musicale Senese and the Estate Musical Chigiana take place in July and August. All this musical appointments are so well-recognized to attract top artists from all over the world.
Cortona
Festival del Sole - Created by Barrett Wissman in 2003, this festival takes place every summer in the first half of August, featuring concerts by some of the world’s most celebrated musical artists, five-star cuisine, art exhibits, and top Italian wines, blended in a unique celebration of the art of life. Since 2006, this festival has been successfully exported in California's Napa Valley where it has already become one of the hottest tickets on the global classical music circuit.
Perugia
Perugia Musica Classica - The Sagra Musicale Umbra (in September) offers an interesting programme of classical music while the concert season of the Amici della Musica (from October through May) attracts every year thousands of spectators and talented Italian and international artists. Tickets can be bought on-line.
Umbria Jazz - This is the most important jazz event in Italy and one of the most important jazz appointments in Europe, able to attract every year the most celebrated artists from all over the world. Umbria Jazz lasts ten days and takes place in Perugia in mid July.
Orvieto
Umbria Jazz Winter - Between end December and early January, Orvieto becomes a little New Orleans, with local and international artists and concerts, jam sessions and street parades in all corners of the city.
Firenze
Maggio Musicale Fiorentino - It is one of the oldest and most prestigious European classical music festivals, together with those of Bayreuth and Salzburg. Current director of the orchestra is Zubin Mehta, while the current director of the Maggio Danza is Vladimir Derevianko. The festival takes place from the end of April through June and is completed by a top-flight annual concert, opera and dance season from October through early April. Tickets can be bought on-line.
Spoleto
Festival dei Due Mondi - Founded by Giancarlo Menotti, also known as Spoleto Festival, it is held every year between the end of June and mid-July in one of the prettiest medieval towns of Umbria, with music, theater and dance spectacles and known artists from all over the world. Tickets can be bought on-line.
Folklore: Montepulciano
Bruscello - It is a musical play in verses performed by the Poliziani, which can be either a tragedy or a comedy. Popular or fantastic tales, real events or episodes drawn from the local ancient literature, the Bruscello is held every summer (13 -16 August) in the magnificent scenery of the Cathedral yard.
Bravio delle Botti - The medieval Bravio pageant is a historical reconstruction based on some ancient codes. This evocative performance ends with the popular barrel race among the 8 city quarters, which traverses uphill the entire town. The Bravio takes place every year, on the last Sunday of August. The week preceding it, the atmosphere in town changes completely: every day and every night, all quarters organize dinners in the streets, often with music and dances, in which the visitors are welcome.
Siena
Palio - This amazing horse race takes place every year on July 2 and August 16. This historical and ancient tradition - among the most important in Italy - is strictly connected with the origin of the 16 Contrade (quarters) of Siena; and in no way is it to be intended as a touristic attraction, being in fact - for the Siena citizens - the very essence of life. The race rules date back from 1644, when the first Palio was run, in a continuity that has never be interrupted so far.
Arezzo
Giostra del Saracino - This evocative reenactment of a medieval joust and fair takes place during the last-but-one Sunday of June and the first Sunday of September.
Nature & sport: The Lago di Montepulciano natural reserve
This 300 hectare reserve - handled by the Italian Bird Protection League - is located a few kilometers away from Montepulciano, in the southern part of the Val di Chiana.
The lake of Montepulciano is what remains of the marsh once occupying most of the Val di Chiana and reclaimed by the Medici during the Renaissance period. The reserve represents today one of the most important wetlands of Central Italy; it is an important stop area for the avifauna migrating between Africa and Europe; it is used by several bird species to spend the winter and nest.
The reserve is open all year round, from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00. It is possible to book a guided boat tour on the lake (☎ 0578.767.343). The boat and various huts and platforms are the ideal places to observe a wide variety of birds like the purple airon (photo), the barn owl or the marsh harrier.
The Lago di Chiusi
Few kilometers away from the Lago di Montepulciano, the Lago di Chiusi is another very interesting area for bird watching, with a small part (8 hectares only) of the lake transformed in reserve since 1999 and handled by the WWF that has created a Visit Center there. If you are lucky, you will observe the very rare glossy ibis (photo). For information: ☎ 0578.21.352.
Horseriding
On horseback: this is another way to discover the Val d'Orcia. From Castiglione d'Orcia (27 kms from Montepulciano), Val d'Orcia Equiturismo organizes tours on horseback combining nature, history and art. Professional instructors and a guide fluent in English and French will take you through breathtaking paths to the medieval abbey of Sant'Antimo, the enchanting castle of Ripa d'Orcia or the ancient village of Vignoni Alto. For information: ☎ 333.98.17.276.
Other horse stables and riding schools in the area:
Centro Ippico Lago di Chiusi, Località Paccianese 78, Chiusi (25' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0578.21.571
Il Poggio, Celle sul Rigo, San Casciano Bagni (45' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0578.53.587
Trekking & biking
In our excursion page, you will find several proposals of walks in the surroundings of Montepulciano. For more, visit the following websites:
Team Nobil Bike organizes trekking and biking thematic excursions in Val d'Orcia or in Val di Chiana - Via Roma 7, Montepulciano Stazione (10' from Montepulciano) ☎ 348.516.01.75.
Cicloposse hires bikes and organizes biking excursions - Via I Maggio 27, Pienza (15' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0578.749.983.
Fitness
There is one very equipped gym in Montepulciano: Top Gym is in via di Martiena, close to the bus station and the tennis courts ☎ 0578.757.161.
Tennis
La Fantina, Montepulciano - Two clay courts lighted up at night (one covered during winter time) - Via di Martiena, close to the bus station ☎ 0578.758.739
Sant'Albino - Two clay courts, lighted up at night - In the sports area (5' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0578.799.119
I Tigli, Montepulciano Stazione - Two covered clay courts, lighted up at night - Via Roma, in the sports area (10' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0578.738.650
Swimming
Fonte di Bellezza, Sant'Albino - In a shadowy park, a large outdoor pool - Via delle Terme (5' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0578.798.048
Piscina Comunale, Montepulciano Stazione - Two covered and two outdoor pools - Via Roma, in the sports area (10' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0578.738.052
Centro Polisportivo Comunale, Chianciano Terme - One olympic outdoor pool, one outdoor diving pool with 5, 7 and 10 meter boards, one covered pool - Via Abetone (10' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0578.31.380 ☎ 0578.320.489
Golf
Golf Club Valdichiana, Bettolle - A new 9-hole course (par 34, 2643 meters/2881 yards); rental of equipment is possible - Località Esse Secco, Bettolle (25' from Montepulciano) ☎ 0577.624.439
Lamborghini Golf Club, Panicale - Designed by Lamborghini in an area close to Lake Trasimeno, this is a 9-hole course (par 36, 2860 meters/3128 yards); rental of equipment is possible - Località Soderi, Panicale (50' from Montepulciano) ☎ 075.837.582
Golf Club Perugia, Ellera Umbra - An 18-hole course (par 72, 5735 meters/6272 yards) very close to Perugia; rental of equipment is possible - Località Santa Sabina, Ellera Umbra (55' from Montepulciano) ☎ 075.517.22.04
Ski
From December through March, the Mount Amiata (1738 meters high) becomes one of the most complete ski district of Central and Southern Italy: it has 10 kilometers of downhill slopes of all levels of difficulty, almost entirely equipped with snow cannons, 8 ski lifts, and 12 kilometers of cross country ski slopes, most of them in an enchanting forest environment (photo). It is possible to book guided and quite adventurous day or night excursions with snowshoes: ☎ 0577.778.324. The Mount Amiata ski area is 45 kilometers away or 55' driving from Montepulciano.
Back to school: 1. Il Sasso, Italian for foreigners - Since 25 years Il Sasso organizes classes of Italian culture and Italian language for foreigners. Lessons are conducted by teachers who are specialized in the teaching of Italian as a foreign and a second language. Located in a central historic building, the school has 8 large classrooms, 1 conference hall, and a terrace with a lovely panoramic view. Free internet point and wifi access - Via di Gracciano nel Corso, 2 - ☎ 0578.758.311
2. Le Logge del Vignola, cookery classes - In this well known restaurant, the classes, individual or for small groups, lasting 1 day or more, regard the following themes: fresh pasta, homemade bread, how to prepare a complete menu, wine tasting - Via delle Erbe, 7 - ☎ 0578.717.290
Banks, pharmacies, newspapers, car rental: Banks & ATM's

1. Cassa di Risparmio di San Miniato - Via San Donato, 15 (with ATM)

2. Cassa di Risparmio di Firenze - Via Ricci, 5 (with ATM close to the Town Hall)

3. Poste Italiane - Via delle Erbe, 12 (Post Office)

4. Credito Cooperativo di Montepulciano - Via di Voltaia nel Corso, 2/4 (with ATM) - Via Elio Bernabei, 14 (with ATM at the supermarket)

5. Banca Popolare dell'Etruria e del Lazio - Via di Voltaia nel Corso, 21 - Piazza Don Minzoni (with ATM)

6. Banca Toscana - Piazza Michelozzo, 2/3 (with ATM)

7. Monte dei Paschi di Siena - Via di Gracciano nel Corso, 61 (with ATM)

8. Banca Nazionale del Lavoro Gruppo BNP Paribas - Piazza Savonarola (with ATM)

9. Banca di Roma - Via I Maggio, 12 (with ATM)
Press
P There are four newsstands in Montepulciano. One of them ( P ) sells British and German newspapers.
Pharmacies
A Farmacia Franceschi - Via di Voltaia nel Corso, 47 - ☎ 0578.757.324

B Farmacia Sorbini - Via Calamandrei - ☎ 0578.757.352
Car rental
The first three car rental companies listed offer the possibility to deliver and withdraw the car in Montepulciano:
Autonoleggio Il Girasole - Via Nincetti 6, Terontola, Cortona - ☎ 0575.678.687 ☎ 0575.953.620
Autonoleggio Caroti - Località Poggio Olivo 6, Macciano, Chiusi - ☎ 0578.274.207
Aesse Rent - Piazza Dante 22, Chiusi Scalo (in front of the railway station) - ☎ 0578.227.993
Avis Sacar - Località Po' Bandino, via Molise, Città della Pieve (800 meters from the Chiusi railway station) - ☎ 0578.228.130 ☎ 0578.20.389
Practice your religion: Catholic churches in Montepulciano - Sunday masses
1. Sant'Agnese - 08:00, 11:00 and 17:30 (18:30 in summer)
2. Sant'Agostino - 18:00
3. Santa Lucia
4. Gesù - 09:30
5. Cathedral - 12:00
6. Santa Maria dei Servi
7. San Biagio - 11:00 and 18:30 (in summer)
8. Santa Maria delle Grazie - 09:00 and 11:30
Evangelical churches
There are many evangelical churches in Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio. Click on the region name to read more.
Synagogues
There are three synagogues in Tuscany (in Florence, Livorno and Pisa), one in Rome and none in Umbria.
Mosques
The most important mosques not too far from Montepulciano are in Rome, Perugia, Arezzo and Florence.