The Town of Pitigliano
The historical centre is noted for the typical habitations which have been cut directly into the tufo mass, the medieval castle and aqueduct and the Etruscan necropolis scattered in the surrounding landscape.
If you arrive in Pitigliano from the coast, you will be instantly captured by the unique panorama that unfolds before your eyes . Pitigliano, perched on a high rocky outcrop, seems to grow out of the sheer rock walls, into which many caves have also been carved.
Pitigliano is one of the most spectacular towns of the Maremma, and is built entirely on and into the vast spur of Tufo rock on which forms its foundations.
Settled originally by the Etruscans, the town has also been occupied by the Romans, and the surrounding area is rich with the remains from these times and medieval relics.
In the 1200’s pitigliano was controlled by the Orsini family until 1600 when it was passed to the Medici of Florence and became part of the Granduchy of Tuscany.
Pitigliano has had a Jewish population since the 17th century and was once known as “Little Jerusalem”. The Synagogue in the town centre is testament to their contribution to the community.And is an important and significant part of local history.
During the German occupation of the area the second World War the jewish population left the town and dispersed into the surrounding countryside and beyond.
Pitigliano and surroundings
The countryside in this area of Tuscany is wild and rugged. Densely wooded valleys, rivers and streams, deep gorges and rocky bluffs, sit side by side with olive groves and vineyards.
Pitigliano has an excellent network of unique pathways called “Vie Cave” real roadways carved out of the Tufo, which connect Pitigliano, Sovana and Sorano.
Here you will find a wonderfully secluded haven, far away from the stresses of a busy lifestyle.
The most interesting, natural and historical sites to visit by foot or bicycle include
The city
Pitigliano is an ancient town full of history.
It emerges from behind the many curves in the local roads, perched on top of a large spur of Tufo rock with sheer drops on all sides down to the valleys below.
Pitigliano has over the years been inhabited by the Etruscans, Romans and more recently was also home to the Orsini family.
The Hermitage
L'Eremo di Poggio Conte, ricavato all'interno di un costone di tufo che cala su una suggestiva valle, è particolarmente ricco di forme artistiche, incisioni, colonne e capitelli scolpiti nel tufo e pitture che dimostrano quanto fosse importante e diffuso il monachesimo nel XIII sec.
All'interno, strutturato come una vera chiesa, vi erano dipinte le figure degli apostoli e nel centro quella di Cristo.