Monteriggioni - The Pearl of Tuscany

As we continued our journey through the rolling hills of Tuscany, our next destination took us from Siena to Monteriggioni, a true gem of the region. Often hailed as the "Pearl of Tuscany," this medieval town is impossible to overlook, gracing nearly every blog and write-up on the top 10 must-visit places in Tuscany. Its timeless charm and historical significance make it a destination that beckons travellers worldwide.

Monteriggioni, Tuscany

We chose this destination due to a recommendation from one of our fave restaurants in Belgrade, Serbia, Gallo Nero. It was on our list and only 25 minutes from Siena, so we found a quaint Tuscany hotel only ten minutes from the centre of Monteriggioni, where we could enjoy a farewell lunch with our dear friends, the Mazzas.

Monteriggioni is a walled town surrounded by a circle of perfectly preserved circular walls perched up on a natural hillock, overlooking and accessible only via two gates on either side of the village. It's known for its medieval fortifications and watchtowers, and the castle walls offer views of the surrounding Chianti region. It was built by the Sienese in 1214–19 as a front line in their wars against Florence.

Upon checking in to our chosen hotel, it was exactly what we had hoped for a traditional and cosy stay with the warmest hosts. Casalta Hotel is located in the heart of Strove, a hamlet of Monteriggioni, a small village of Lombard origins, which over time became a point of passage for pilgrims on the Via Francigena. Strove has suggestive views of the Tuscan countryside, the Via Francigena and the Borgo and has nearly 150 residents.

We arrived for lunch at Le Torri Monteriggioni, a ristorante also recommended by our friends from Belgrade. It was perfect; we were seated on the cosy terrace, being hugged by the leafy green vines. We enjoyed a slow lunch served by the kindest and friendliest team over more exquisite homemade Tuscan dishes whilst savouring the wines from Tuscany.

After lunch, we explored the pearl of Tuscany and relished the history and what went on within these walls hundreds of years ago, capturing some precious memories of our few days together.

We weren't quite ready to leave this quaint place, so the afternoon was spent hiding away in a local bar with the obligatory Campari spritz, talking about life and sharing moments full of laughter.

The sun was setting, so it was time to bid our dear family farewell, and we took a trip topless through the rolling hills of Tuscany with the backdrop of a pink sky to appreciate this magical part of the world, followed by an authentic and delicious pizza in a nearby village surrounded by the friendly locals choosing to do the same.

Tuscan Sunsets

Monteriggioni is definitely one of the must-visits on your Tuscan adventures and is worthy of the pearl title. Thank you, Gallo Nero, for the recommendations and our dear Mazzas for sharing part of their family vacay with us.

Date visited: September 14, 2023