Montepulciano: palaces, cellars and Tuscan landscape
Montepulciano occupies a long hill between Valdichiana and Val d'Orcia. The main street climbs through gates, churches and palaces to Piazza Grande. Renaissance architecture and the production of Vino Nobile are linked to an agricultural territory that surrounds the centre.
History and identity
The village was disputed between Siena and Florence and underwent important transformations between the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. Antonio da Sangallo the Elder and other architects worked in the city. The temple of San Biagio, outside the walls, is one of the best-known examples, while Piazza Grande concentrates the town hall and cathedral.
What to see
The climb from below crosses the course and allows you to observe buildings such as Bucelli and Avignonesi. The historic cellars under some buildings show the use of the subsoil, but they belong to different producers. San Biagio requires a separate descent; the views change along the walls.
Understand the place
The slopes are steep and car access to the center is limited. Tastings and visits to the cellars must be booked and do not replace an urban route. Those who drive must plan responsibly. Summer events, markets and jobs can change parking and circulation.
Prepare the visit
Times, access conditions and transportation may change. Before the trip, check the official pages linked from the source, protect the heritage and leave the entrances to the homes free. Source in local language.