On our second day in Florence we decided to join a tour going to some smaller towns in the Tuscany region as well as visiting some winery’s along the way. I loved everything about Florence and our time in the city. The Tuscany countryside though, well that stole my heart.
Our first stop of the day was Monteriggioni, a small village that represents one of the most important walled in castles in the province of Siena.
Monteriggioni was built between 1213-1219 for defensive purposes. With its positioning at the top of the hill they were able to see if an army was approaching Siena. There is 14 towers along the wall that guards would walk along while on lookout.
Two gates are used as entrances to enter Monteriggioni. One is known as the Romea Gate and faces Rome. The other is known as Florentine Gate which faces Florence.
The piazza in the village is called Piazza di Roma. It is a very small but charming piazza with several little shops and a Gothic style church.
Every July the village comes alive with the Medieval Festival of Monteriggioni. I can only imagine it is a sight to see! The Piazza di Roma turns into a medieval village with craftsmen selling goods, people dressed in costume and performances happening all over. Maybe one day I will be back to experience it for myself.
H and I had a great time exploring Monteriggioni and this was just the first stop of the day! Next week I will share the next village we visited, Siena, which was filled with more beautiful sites.
Question of the Day?
Have you ever toured a Medieval village?
Linking up with Treasure Tromp, Her and Nicole and The Grits Blog
