Discovering the corners of Montepulciano

Montepulciano is one of the most enchanting towns of Tuscany. It lies to the south of the region between the agricultural region of Valdichiana and the ravishing and wilder Valdorcia (Unesco World Heritage). The town was built on the highest point of a 500-metre hill and enjoys spectacular sights that take in Umbria and Lake Trasimeno. Montepulciano’s style is typically medieval with dramatic walls surrounding the town and historical buildings, mainly medieval, but also of Renaissance architecture turning this spot into one of the best preserved jewels of the artistic heritage of Tuscany.

As it is a medieval town, Montepulciano has no easy access. Therefore, from the parking area located outside the walls, the visitor has to go up along the little medieval lanes of town to get to the pretty cathedral and its "Plaza Grande"(main square).

It is important to take into account that the ascent to the highest point of town though tiring it may be, it is filled with beautiful corners and seducing historic palaces abounding in charm, such as for example the famous Caffe Poliziano very frequently visited in by the celebrated Italian director Federico Fellini in his time. Another charming spot found while going up towards the cathedral is the celebrated Piazza San Francesco, from whose vantage point it is possible to relish the ravishing Valdorcia (World Heritage by Unesco).

Around the Piazza San Francesco you should stop at the Caffé "Lucevan le Stelle" which serves an interesting selection of local wines in an atmosphere of jazz offering live performances throughout the summer.

The ascent towards the beautiful square of the cathedral will also provide travellers with many spots with lovely views to the right of the enchanting Valdichiana and Lake Trasimeno, to finish in the Redi cellars which are an obligatory stop for wine and art lovers. The cellars are impressive and very well preserved in a charming medieval palace. They are a one-of-a-kind free-of-charge outing which cannot be missed in a visit to Montepulciano.

The ascent ends in the pretty Piazza Grande where the marvellous cathedral is.

Here is a web offering an interesting guide to Montepulciano and a video of some scenes of the famed Twilight, whose sequel was filmed in Montepulciano last summer.