The magnificent Chiana Valley, one of the four aretian valleys, spreads south of Arezzo, surrounded by mountains and crossed by the Canal Maestro della Chiana, created in 1338 by commission of the Florentine Republic. This region boasts a wealth of natural landscapes and fascinating ancient villages.
The Val di Chiana is indeed very close to the city of Arezzo, where our cozy B&B.From “Hundred Steps from the Cathedral” you can then easily discover every corner of this enchanting land. In this small guide, we will provide you with suggestions on places and activities not to be missed in this fairy-tale atmosphere setting.
Cortona and the charm of the ancient Chiana Valley
Once called Curtun in ancient Etruria, Cortona is a small jewel that reveals its greatness through the richness of its historical and artistic heritage. This town boasts as many as eighteen areas of archaeological significance, including ancient Etruscan tombs and the fascinating Rocca di Pierle. In the heart of the town, the well-known Museo Diocesano houses masterpieces by artists such as Pietro Lorenzetti, Beato Angelico and Luca Signorelli.
But Cortona is not “only” art and culture : even a leisurely walk through its historic streets can enchant those who visit. A destination to absolutely explore!
Castiglion Fiorentino: medieval jewel of the Chiana Valley
Walking through the streets of Castiglion Fiorentino you will find yourself immersed in the historic charm of the Middle Ages. Entering through the ancient walls from the Florentine Gate the first wonderful building you will encounter is the Church of St. Francis. This sacred building, of Romanesque architecture, features Gothic details and dates back to the 12th century. Inside San Francesco is notable for its frescoes, including a painting of the Crucifixion by Francesco Morandini, known as “the Poppi.”
Continuing your visit, you will come across the Loggiato Vasariano, which graces the Town Hall Square. From there, your gaze can sweep over a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape, and the array of historic coats of arms on the interior walls deserves attention.
Finally, it is essential to mention the Piazzale del Cassero, site of the historic 12th-century fortress. A short distance away, erected in the 14th century, is the Torre del Cassero, next to the Palazzo Pretorio and the Church of Sant’Angelo.
Monte San Savino: the best norcina tradition
Monte San Savino holds a surprise for food lovers: in fact, here you will find the Porchetta awarded as the best in Italy in 2022. But that’s not all: this delicacy has earned a place in the famous Guinness World Records in 2010. Just think of a pork roast that stretches more than 44 meters: simply amazing! Monte San Savino’s centuries-old pork tradition is more than reason to plan a visit. And while you’re there, savor a sandwich full of this Porchetta while enjoying the view from the Hanging Gardens of the Palazzo del Comune, also known as Palazzo del Monte. A true journey into Tuscan flavor!
Civitella in Val di Chiana: between history and Tuscan goliardia
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Civitella in Val di Chiana is one of the most enchanting and easily accessible villages in the valley, if you start from Arezzo. Situated on top of a hill that offers breathtaking views of the valley below, the village will surprise you with its charming alleys. Within the village you can also discover the Rocca di Civitella, which is now a ruin reminiscent of a glorious past. In Civitella it is also possible to take a dip into more recent history with a visit the Memorial Museum. This institution tells us about the events of World War II and the events of the Tuscan front, which marked the lives of the local population.
But Civitella also has a playful side, typical of the Tuscan goliardic spirit. This aspect gave rise to the “Sarapino,” a tradition that dates back to the late 1950s. This festival, celebrated every June, is a parody version of the more famousJoust of the Saracen of Arezzo. Here in Civitella, instead of the traditional horses, the legendary Piaggio Bees are ridden. During this event, the village’s four districts (Torre, Porta Senese, Porta Aretina and San Francesco) compete in a challenge similar to Arezzo’s Disfida di Buratto.
Castle of Gargonza: a wonderful fortified village
Having almost reached the end of this brief overview of the Valdichiana, we cannot fail to mention the fascinating Castle of Gargonza. This peculiar fortified village represents a magnificent example of medieval Tuscan architecture. Inside, a high-quality restaurant awaits you in a dreamlike setting. It is also evident here: in Chiana Valley good food is an indispensable feature!
Trasimeno Lake: an oasis on the edge of the Chiana Valley
To conclude our quick look at the Chiana Valley we cannot overlook a visit to Lake Trasimeno, located on the border with Umbria and the Province of Perugia. This place has been populated since ancient times and it is not difficult to understand why: the lake has always symbolized prosperity and harmony. A visit to Lake Trasimeno today will give you quiet moments and “postcard” views that you will not forget.
Beyond Arezzo, the treasures of the Chiana Valley await you.
Valdichiana is really just around the corner from Arezzo. In Chiana Valley , for those who have the pleasure of staying at the B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo , you can discover the best of Tuscan tradition. Indeed, ancient Tuscany is alive and well in Val di Chiana, and if you want to find out more, we invite you to continue reading the articles in our little guide! Cento Passi dal Duomo is waiting for you to explore all the beauty of Valdichiana!