MONTEPULCIANO
Piazza Grande is the heart of Montepulciano — a meeting point of history, architecture, and cultural life.
At its center stands the Well of the Griffins and Lions (Pozzo dei Grifi e dei Leoni), designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder during his time in Montepulciano. This elegant Renaissance structure, with its stone lions and griffins, has become one of the village’s iconic symbols.
A fun fact for movie lovers: Piazza Grande was the filming location for the pivotal scene in New Moon (the second movie of the Twilight saga), where Bella saves Edward’s life.
Museo Civico and Palazzo Neri Orselli
Just a short stroll from the square, within the 14th-century Palazzo Neri Orselli, the Civic Museum (Museo Civico) houses a rich collection of paintings, terracottas, and archaeological artifacts that tell the story of Montepulciano’s deep artistic and cultural roots.
Palazzo Comunale and the Tower View
Adjacent to the square stands the Palazzo Comunale, one of Montepulciano’s most emblematic buildings. With its elegant travertine Gothic façade and crenellated tower, it reflects the town’s medieval prestige and civic pride. Visitors can climb the internal staircase to the top of the tower for a breathtaking panoramic view over the Valdichiana and Val d’Orcia.
The Duomo of Montepulciano
Dominating the highest point of the town is the Cathedral of Montepulciano, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta. Built between 1586 and 1680 by Ippolito Scalza, it replaced the older parish church of Santa Maria, of which the massive 15th-century bell tower still remains, albeit unfinished at the top. The façade is also incomplete, yet the interior holds some remarkable works of art, including:
The Assumption Triptych by Taddeo di Bartolo
The Funeral Monument of Bartolomeo Aragazzi by Michelozzo
A splendid glazed terracotta by Andrea della Robbia
Sant’Agostino Church
Near the Duomo lies the Church of Sant’Agostino, a striking example of Gothic-Renaissance style. Its construction began in 1285 and took more than two centuries to complete. The church is home to precious Renaissance frescoes and a polychrome wooden crucifix from the 1400s, attributed by some to Donatello or Antonio da Sangallo.
The Temple of San Biagio
Just outside the town walls, nestled in the countryside, stands the magnificent Temple of San Biagio — a Renaissance masterpiece designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder. Built between 1518 and 1548 and consecrated in 1537, it features:
A grand central dome
A semicircular apse
Twin bell towers (only the left one was completed)
The temple was constructed on the site of an early Christian church and houses a 14th-century fresco of the Madonna and Child, known as the Madonna di San Biagio, believed to have miraculous powers. Even Michelangelo is said to have drawn inspiration from this church for his design of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Medici Fortress
Located near Piazza Grande, the Medici Fortress was originally built in 1261 by the Republic of Siena for military purposes. Throughout the centuries, it underwent several reconstructions due to conflicts between the Sienese and the Florentines. The final major redesign was completed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder. In 1885, engineer Augusto Corbi led a significant restoration. Today, the fortress serves as a venue for exhibitions and cultural events.
Poliziano Walkway
The Poliziano Walk stretches for about 200 meters along the ancient walls of Montepulciano, connecting Porta delle Farine with Piazza Santa Maria dei Servi. Dedicated to the humanist poet Agnolo Ambrogini, known as Il Poliziano, who was born in Montepulciano, this panoramic path offers a scenic view over the Valdichiana and beyond — all the way to Cortona, Lake Chiusi, Lake Trasimeno, and the Appenine mountains.
Lake of Montepulciano Nature Reserve
Just a few kilometers from the town, in the southern part of the Valdichiana near the Umbria border, lies the Lake of Montepulciano Nature Reserve. This protected area encompasses the lake itself, the Canale Maestro della Chiana, and surrounding farmland. Together with nearby Lake Chiusi, it represents the remnants of the vast marshland that once dominated the region. The reserve is one of the most important wetlands in central Italy, lying on a key migratory route for birds traveling between Africa and Europe.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
This iconic red wine is born on the gentle hills around Montepulciano, in vineyards steeped in centuries of tradition. Even as far back as the 17th century, Francesco Redi called it the king of Tuscan wines. Praised by nobles and poets alike, Vino Nobile has undergone significant refinement in recent decades thanks to advanced viticultural techniques. Today, it’s considered one of Italy’s most prestigious red wines. Many of the historic wineries, often located in the underground cellars of Renaissance palaces, are open for tours and tastings — offering a magical journey through tuff-carved tunnels and arched brick ceilings.
The Bravìo delle Botti
On the last Sunday of August, Montepulciano comes alive with the Bravìo delle Botti, a thrilling barrel-rolling race that dates back over 600 years. Eight districts (Contrade) compete by pushing 80 kg barrels uphill for 1800 meters through the old town’s streets to the Duomo square. In the afternoon, a grand historical parade with over 300 costumed participants winds through the town. At 7:00 PM, following the tolling of the great bell, the race begins. Only one Contrada will earn the victory — and the coveted painted banner known as the Panno.
The Bruscello Poliziano
A Montepulciano tradition since 1939, the Bruscello Poliziano is a unique theatrical event performed in Piazza Grande during the mid-August holiday. The cathedral steps become the stage, and local performers known as “bruscellanti” bring to life stories based on recurring festivities or themes close to the hearts of the townspeople. It is a celebration of local creativity, music, and storytelling, deeply rooted in community spirit.
Montepulciano is not just a destination — it’s a stage where history, wine, art, and life perform in perfect harmony.
Every street, stone, and sip tells a story, waiting for you to discover.