Ancient fortresses and stories of sieges: in search of castles in Val d’Orcia

Sighting towers and defensive structures dot the skyline of the Val d’Orcia, ideal destinations to immerse yourself in history and enjoy breath-taking views.

ART AND CULTURE

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In the past, when men moved on horseback and the armies marched for days and days towards the battlefield, Val d'Orcia was witness to many gripping stories. Emperors, commanders, priests and bandits have experienced all kinds of events: the rocks, the castles and fortresses have witnessed the unfolding of sieges, prison terms, defeats and victories, and still today you can visit these places full of drama.

Many among these fortifications have developed along the route of the Via Francigena, which offers breath-taking views to trekkers and bikers. One of the views is over Radicofani: when visiting the town and the fortress, built on what remained of a prehistorical volcano, you can relive the feats of Ghino di Tacco, the gentleman bandit who robbed the rich but let the poor go (and therefore called “The Robin Hood of Val d'Orcia”). The Abbot of Cluny was held in his prisons by Ghino di Tacco. He was travelling towards the spas of the area: the priest was fascinated so much by the personality of his jailer that, once out of prison, he successfully interceded for him with the Pope to repeal his excommunication.

Not far from Radicofani is the small walled town of Contignano, that together with the castles of Vignoni, Monticchiello and Spedaletto are ideal destinations for a relaxing stroll among the stones of ancient fortifications.

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Nestled on the rocks and surrounded by extensive views, are some ancient watchtowers and defensive structures. The castle of Campiglia d'Orcia and the nearby fortification of Campigliola have seen celebrated heroes of history, such as Frederick Barbarossa, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, who travelled to these lands to look for Arnaldo da Brescia, a heretic who revolted against the papacy.

The Rocca di Tentennano, a structure from where you can enjoy an incomparable view over the valley, has witnessed many sieges, just like the Castle of Monticchiello.

There are many fortifications that with their majestic walls break the horizon; some small towns which were built around castles - such as Montalcino, Torrenieri and Ripa d'Orcia - still keep the original structures, in an exciting alternation of picturesque alleyways and ancient walls.

All over Val d'Orcia you can find charming places to be explored travelling at a slow pace and fully immersing yourself in the landscape and in local history; a discovery that will include also the typical flavours, that tell the stories of those who have always lived in this land.