What to see close to Fattoria Pagnana
The Territory
Staying at Fattoria Pagnana, in the heart of Chianti, does not only mean enjoying one of the most beautiful zones of Italy but also experiencing life in the centre of a territory with cities and towns that have made up the history of Tuscany and Italy in general.
A privileged position for the Tourist in that one can reach the most beautiful cities with interests historical, cultural and eno-gastronomic of central Italy in few minutes by car. We would like to suggest various destinations indicating distances, historical facts as well as what to see.
At 15KM
Florence
Without a doubt one of the most important cities for art, architecture and culture, Florence is easily reached within a few minutes from Fattoria Pagnana. The city reached it greatest splendour between the XI and XV centuries, first as a free comune and then under the dominion of the Medici. During the period of the Grand Dukedom of Tuscany (Gran Ducato di Toscana), the city’s political and economic power grew to its maximum level.
The city is home of many artists whose works are spread throughout the historic centre: painters such as Giotto and Cimabue, renaissance innovators such as Brunelleschi and Donatello and universal figures such as Leonardo and Michelangelo. Absolutely to see are the Galleria degli Uffizi, the most prestigious in the world, the sculptures Michelangelo, the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Strozzi, the Baptistery with its mosaics and the Cathedral.
At 85Km
Siena
The medieval city of Siena is to be found on the edge of the zone of Chianti. Absolutely to visit is the very famous Piazza del Campo, placed on the meeting point of the three hills on which Siena is built. The square is divided into nine sections and is witness to the Council of Nine which governed the city in the XIII century.
Twice a year, in July and August the citizens recreate the same medieval atmosphere running the famous Palio horse race. Also to visit are the Public Palace, the Museum and the Cathedral which was constructed at the end of the XII century.
At 110KM
Pisa
Being one of the ancient Marittime Republics, Pisa was able to invest its wealth in many exceptional buildings. The most famous are to be found in the walled Piazza dei Miracoli (a UNESCO world heritage site) and specifically are the Cathedral, the Baptistery and, obviously, the better known Leaning Tower.
Consider visiting Pisa as part of a combined trip to Lucca.
At 105Km
Lucca
A perfect city to visit on foot, totally surrounded by tall and thick walls. Full of narrow and stunning streets with a surprise at every corner. Try to find the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro and Piazza San Michele with its magnificent church dating back to the XII century. It is an exceptional location to go around on a bike as it is practically flat and even the walls are bike friendly.
Consider visiting Lucca as part of a combined trip to Pisa.
At 30Km
Greve in Chianti
This delightful little town is truly in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. The centre is Piazza Matteotti with its restaurants, bars and food stores which sell traditional tuscan delicacies such as wild boar prosciutto and salame.
The town comes alive once every month when the popular antique market is held.
At 40Km
Gaiole in Chianti
Classified by the magazine Forbes as one of the most idyllic spots in which to live in Europe, Gaiole in Chianti is roughly 15 km north east of Siena. TheCastello di Brolio is a few kilometres south of the town and belongs to the Ricasoli family.Count Bettino Ricasoli is well known as having created the first official combination of the various grape varietals representing Chianti.
For bike enthusiasts Gaiole is the departure and arrival point of the annual race known as Strade Bianche which takes place every March.
At 55Km
Castellina in Chianti
Roghly 15 km north of Siena, Castellina is a small village in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. Not as well known as some of its more famous neighbours it is less crowded during high season. The town centre is a small square called the Rocca di Castellina in Chianti.
The town is a good stopover for lunch when visiting the area.
At 65Km
San Gimignano
This fortified hilltop town is roughly 40 km north west of Siena and is on the Via Francigena. An UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Gimignano is especially famous for its numerous medieval towers. 14 still remain and the unique skyline is frequently referred to as a medieval Manhattan.
For who is not over sensitive we recommend the Museo della Tortura (Torture Museum).
At 90Km
Volterra
A walled hilltop city half way between Siena and the sea. The origins of Volterra go way back to the Etruscan era which preceded the Roman one. Some of the Etruscan remains are still visible and well preserved such as the walls of Volterra and the gate of Porta Diana. A visit to the Museo Etrusco Guarnacci is worthwhile.
It is an unmissable stop for those impassioned by true esotericism as well as fans of the cult saga Twilight (of Stephenie Meyer), with Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson.
At 70Km
Monteriggioni
A small walled town on top of a hill roughly 10 km north of Siena. It is quoted in the Divine Comedy of Dante Alighieri. Originally an important fortification during the medieval wars between Siena and Florence.
Monteriggioni is also an important location in the extremely famous video game Assassin's Creed!