Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
For those looking to venture beyond the bustling streets of Rome and explore the picturesque Tuscan countryside, an excursion to the medieval village of Monteriggioni is a perfect option. Located near Siena, Monteriggioni is one of the best-preserved medieval walled towns in Italy, offering a unique glimpse into the past with its well-preserved fortifications and historical ambiance.
The History of Monteriggioni: A Medieval Masterpiece
Monteriggioni was built in 1214 by the Sienese as a defensive outpost against the rival Florentine forces. Perched on a hilltop, its strategic location made it a key point of defense for Siena during the numerous battles fought in medieval Tuscany. The town’s imposing walls, which stretch for 570 meters, are punctuated by 14 towers that once provided watchful guards with views over the surrounding valleys.
Today, the walls of Monteriggioni stand much as they did centuries ago, offering visitors a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of medieval soldiers and gaze out over the rolling Tuscan hills.
Monteriggioni in Dante’s Divine Comedy
Monteriggioni has also found a place in Italian literature, most notably in Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy. In Canto XXXI of Inferno, Dante compares the towering giants guarding the pit of Hell to the towers of Monteriggioni. He writes:
“…as with circling round
Of turrets, Monteriggioni crowns his walls;
E’en thus the shore, encompassing the abyss,
Was turreted with giants…”
(Inferno, Canto XXXI)
Dante’s comparison of the giants to the town’s towers serves as a powerful literary image, evoking the might and grandeur of Monteriggioni’s medieval fortifications.
What to See in Monteriggioni
A visit to Monteriggioni feels like stepping back in time. The Piazza Roma, the main square, is the heart of the village, surrounded by historic buildings and the charming Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a 13th-century Romanesque church. You can also walk along a portion of the medieval walls, where the views of the surrounding countryside are breathtaking.
For those interested in military history, The Monteriggioni in Arms Museum offers a glimpse into the medieval warfare that once dominated the region, with exhibits displaying weapons and armor used during the Middle Ages.
A Taste of Tuscany
While exploring Monteriggioni, you’ll also have the chance to indulge in the flavors of Tuscan cuisine. Small restaurants and trattorias throughout the town serve traditional dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta) and ribollita (a hearty Tuscan soup), offering the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy a meal in the medieval surroundings.
Where to Stay: Borgo San Luigi
For those who wish to extend their stay in the Siena region, we recommend staying at the Borgo San Luigi hotel. Nestled in the countryside just a short drive from Monteriggioni, Borgo San Luigi offers a blend of luxury and rustic charm. With its Tuscan-style villas, beautiful gardens, and a serene swimming pool, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring.
How to Get There
Monteriggioni is about 250 kilometers north of Rome. It’s easily accessible by car, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours via the A1 motorway. Alternatively, you can take a train to Siena and then a short bus or taxi ride to reach Monteriggioni.
For Guests at QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast
For guests staying at QuodLibet B&B in Rome, a day trip to Monteriggioni offers a wonderful chance to explore the Tuscan countryside. Whether you’re a history buff, a literature lover, or simply in search of scenic beauty, Monteriggioni’s medieval charm, steeped in both Dante’s literary references and Italy’s rich past, makes it a destination well worth visiting.
