Town: Monteriggioni (Siena) -
Pop. 50 inhabitants - Alt: 200 m asl
Description: This completely walled medieval town sits on a
small natural hillock not far from Siena. It enjoys commanding views
and still preserves its medieval look.
Sights and Attractions:
Church of Santa Maria Assunta in the main piazza.
The hermitage of St. Lorenzo al Lago (12th C.) preserves a 14th
century fresco cycle by the Sienese painter Lippo Vanni. Of note is
the "Crucifixion" a beautiful
fresco hosted in the "Sala Capitolare" by Giovanni di Paolo. (1445).
In the nearby small borgo of Abbadia Isola is the church of SS. Salvatore
and Cirino preserving some valuable works by Sano di Pietro and
Taddeo di Bartolo .
Worthy of a visit are the 3th C " Castello della Chiocciola" and
"Villa di Santa Colomba"
Several wineries in the hamlet, where to taste Chianti wine, are
worthy to visit.
Events:
On the 1st week end of July in Monteriggioni takes place the "Festa
Medievale", the most famous medieval re-enactement of Italy. It
offers a throwback to the past that have not equals. Monteriggioni
recalls its ancient history and lifestyle. Local people dressed in
medieval costume play various personages, such as farmers,
merchants, soldiers, cross-bowmen, friars etc. showing along the
narrow streets and the piazzas, the ancient arts and crafts In the
hamlet visitors meet also magicians, astrologers, ballad-singers,
jesters, jugglers, and acrobats coming from far-off countries, while
in the hostelries people taste medieval dishes and drinks.
Typical products: Olive oil, wine, ceramics, wooden and
marble works.
Curiosity: On the spot have been acted some scenes of films
such as Life is beautiful (La vita è bella) by Roberto Benigni, The Gladiator
by Ridley Scott and many more...
Nearby smaller towns and hamlets Abbadia Isola, Badesse, Basciano,
Castellina Scalo, Colonna, Lornano, Monteriggioni, Quercegrossa,
Santa Colomba, Scorgiano, Stomennano,
Strove, Uopini.
Neighboring towns: Casole d'Elsa, Castellina in Chianti,
Castelnuovo Berardenga, Colle di Val d'Elsa, Poggibonsi, Siena,
Sovicille
Nearest airport: Florence - Peretola airport (km 55 ).
Nearest train station: Siena train station (15 km)
Public trasportation: TRA-IN Bus service www.traispa.it
Distances: Arezzo 119 km;
Florence 60, Pisa 133 km; San Gimignano
27 km; Siena 15
