Monteriggioni is a small, charming Tuscan hilltown with a ringed Medieval-era fortified wall. It feels like stepping into a living postcard. This quaint town makes an excellent lunch spot as it’s not far from Siena, San Gimignano, and other Tuscan towns. With its slow pace and storybook ambiance, Monteriggioni (mohn-teh-rih-jee-OH-nee) is a perfect stop for travelers seeking both beauty and a sense of the past. My husband and I enjoyed visiting Monteriggioni on a lovely fall day while driving from Siena to San Gimignano, and it quickly became one of our favorite small towns in this beautiful region.
Siena built this fortified town to its north in the early 13th century for protection from their arch-enemies in Florence. Additionally, it was a place of refuge for religious pilgrims traveling the Via Francigena (“road from France”), a 1,250-mile/2,000-km medieval path from England through France and Italy to Rome. This path played a crucial role in trade, communication, the exchange of new ideas, religious pilgrimages, and occasionally, invasion.
Two entrances or gates provide access to Monteriggioni: the Porta Romana, facing Rome and Siena, is the main entrance and is located close to the parking lot; the Porta Fiorentina, facing Florence, is situated on the opposite side of town, along the perimeter of the wall.
What to Do in Monteriggioni
- Stroll the ancient walls for sweeping vistas of the Chianti region. There are two sections designed for walking; entrances to those sections are located near the two town entrances.
- Visit the small yet captivating Church of Santa Maria Assunta in the main square, Piazza Dante Alighieri.
- Stop by the Armor Museum for historical displays, fortress models, and recreated weaponry.
- Stroll along Via I Maggio, the main road through town, stopping to window shop. Wander on the small back streets to explore the town.
- Enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine al fresco in Piazza Dante Alighieri or cozy trattorias tucked into old stone buildings.
- Hikers, walkers, and cyclists can enjoy the trails surrounding Monteriggioni.
Location
Monteriggioni is a short drive from several well-known Tuscan towns:
- 6 miles/26 km west of San Gimignano
- 12 miles/19 km NW of Siena
- 34 miles/55 km south of Florence
Visitor Tips for Monteriggioni
- Park in the lot at the top of the hill, close to the main gate, or in the large gravel lot near the bottom of the hill.
- The tourist information office is at Piazza Roma 23.
- Check out the tourist information website to learn more about visiting Monteriggioni and the Armor Museum.
- Euros are the local currency. Credit cards (VISA, Mastercard) are accepted.
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Final Thoughts
My husband and I have visited a slew of beautiful Tuscan towns, and Monteriggioni is clearly a favorite. It’s the perfect place to slow down, stroll, linger over a delicious meal, wander through the shops and small gardens, and ponder those who lived or visited here as religious pilgrims over the centuries. Monteriggioni is a delight to visit!
Comments?
Feel free to share your experiences in Monteriggioni and/or suggestions for other nearby places to visit. Your ideas could be helpful to other travelers. Thanks! 🙂
