Pitigliano, Everything You Need To Know
Written by: Travel With Wally
Pitigliano
Pitigliano is a small town in the Province of Grosseto, Tuscany. It is a magical sight to see when approaching the outer walls. It, as well as its neighboring villages, Seranao and Sovana, was built into cliffs made of a volcanic, tuffacious rock that helped to protect the people of the Fiora Valley all the way back to 2300 B.C. The Etruscans lived there in the sixth century.
Pitigliano is known as Little Jeruselum because in the sixteenth century the Orsini family, which ruled the little state of Pitigliano in the 1600s, allowed Jews to settle here. Back in WWII, Pitigliano was known for helping Jews escape and hide from religious persecution.
Pitigliano is a trip back in time and is also a great base for visiting other nearby Tuscan gems. As it is only accessible by car, the crowds will be smaller than in places like Florence or Pisa.
Where is Pitigliano?
Located in southern Tuscany, Pitigliano provides an ideal anchor while you enjoy the other surrounding areas after absorbing all that you can in the town. Pitigliano is located near the border of Lazio and Tuscany. This will allow you to enjoy the hot springs of Saturnaria–only a half hour away–while also venturing to Lazio, yet another stunning Italian region.
Pitigliano is just South of Montepulciano by about 1.5 hours, and in one short hour, you can reach the seaside.
If you are approaching via your car, stop at Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie. It will grace you with a remarkable view of the stone city. Stop by at night when the moon is glowing for an even more astonishing view.
What to do in Pitigliano
Pitigliano has an astonishing amount of attractions and things to do. For such a small town, it will provide you with endless adventure. It is the perfect place for those that love history, nature, and old churches. Here we have listed some must-sees in Pitigliano.
Palazzo Orsini
Between the 11th and 12th centuries, the structure was built as a convent. It later became the Aldobrandesca Fortress in the later 13th century. This didn’t last long, though. The entire county fell under Orsini rule, through marriage. From 1293-1608, the Orsini family ruled the surrounding lands while living in the palace.
You will see the tall keep and surrounding battlements when arriving at the palace. When entering, you will go through a particularly intricate doorway. In the center of the palace is its hidden gem, the courtyard. It has centuries-old windows, an old well that accents the square, and pure charm.
Medici Aqueduct
As the name suggests, the aqueduct was built by the Medici family. Built between the years 1636 & 1639, it was the first aqueduct to be built in Maremma. Aqueducts are built to bring water to towns and villages, and that is exactly what this aqueduct did. In the 18th century, it was modified to have several arches. This was done by the Lorraines.
The aqueduct has been incorporated into the walls and is constructed almost entirely of Tufa rock, which came from local sources.
As one of the largest architectural icons of the city, the Medici aqueduct is hard to miss as you head into town.
The Jewish Ghetto
As we previously mentioned, there was a large population of Jews living in Pitigliano (aka Little Jerusalem) for hundreds of years.
You will find the ancient Jewish quarter or ghetto beginning at Via Marghera, below the cathedral. It is in the middle of the historic city center.
The ghetto was the heartbeat of the Jewish community in Pitigliano, and during the 1500s several integral structures were built including a synagogue. Other unique places you can find here are a kosher butcher, ritual baths, and an unleavened oven. Not only are they interesting places to visit, but they also have noteworthy architecture.
Wander around this special niche in the historic town.
Archeological Museum
Remember how I mentioned that history lovers will love Pitigliano? Well, the history continues from the historic building and streets to the Civic Archeological Museum of Pitigliano.
Inside this extensive museum, you will find artifacts that date back to the Etruscan era. The Vaselli collection is particularly special, as it was donated in 1995 allowing the museum to reopen its doors. It contains artifacts from the first half of the 6th century BC.
Pieces that were formally on display in Florence are now found at the museum along with numerous other pieces that have been excavated in Pitigliano. The area is incredibly rich in history.
It is astonishing to me that these artifacts have lasted so long as part of the earth.
Price: €3.00
Website (Check for current hours)
A Manzi Open Air Archeological Museum
Bringing history back to life, this intriguing museum allows you to see how life may have looked thousands of years ago. You follow a path that first leads you to two homes. The first represents a hut from the bronze age. The other is a home built with stones and represents life during the archaic age.
As you follow the path on your way to the next section, you will have a view of the Jewish cemetery from a terrace. The next main area is dedicated to the Etruscan Necropolis. After seeing the model of a burial site, you will come to burial chambers that have been carved out of the tuff (stone). These remarkable chambers date back as far as the second century BC.
What a fun way to spend time outdoors while also learning about local (ancient) history.
Cost: €4.00 (combo with other archeological museums €6)
Events and Festivals in Pitigliano
Pitigliano may be small, but it is filled to the brim with festivals and events. Depending on the time of year you visit, you are bound to find yourself amid some sort of festivity.
Torciata di San Giuseppe (March)
Typically starting a couple of days before March 19th, this festival celebrates the beginning of spring. The traditional festival dates back to the Etruscans, who saw fire as a way of purification and ensuring fertile soil and good harvests.
The days leading up to the 19th are full of community events, including sports. The festival comes to an end on the evening of March 19th with a large bonfire in the town square. Forty men in hoods carry bundles of brush and wood into the square and set it up around a meters-high puppet. They then set it ablaze and dance around the fire while hand in hand.
This festival is a way to re-live ancient rites and traditions that might otherwise be forgotten.
Festa del Contadino (First weekend of August)
As with many Italians, the people of Pitigliano are very proud of their and their town’s heritage and traditions. And that extends to the Festa del Contadino festival which translates to the Feast of the Farmer. Farming is a long-standing way of life in the area.
During the festival, the town celebrates the old peasant traditions of respecting nature and the importance of protecting it. One of the highlights of the event is the parade of tractors. You will also be able to partake in traditional peasant games, hear traditional music, and see the progression of farm equipment.
Find more information on the festival HERE
Settembre di Vino
Pitigliano’s biggest event of the year centers around one of Italy’s most famous beverages, wine. The festival takes place for four days during the first weekend of September. Wineries in the center open their cellars to the public for tours.
You will not run short on activities as there are wine and menu pairings, music, dancing, and much more. This festival is sure to make wine lovers swoon with all of the choices of world-class wines.
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What to Eat in Pitigliano
We previously learned that Pitigliano is known as Little Jerusalem. The large population of Jewish people and their culture had an impact on many aspects of living including food and drink. So what does that mean?
The local cuisine differs from your typical Italian dishes such as bolognese, lasagna, and pork products. You will find foods that reflect kosher delights, especially unleavened bread and pastries.
When you are in Pitigliano, be sure to try these local delicacies:
Local wines:
You can find many different quality wines including reds, whites, and sparkling. Pitigliano’s wine co-op and other local wineries produce wine with DOC and IGT labels. Examples include the Bianco di Pitigliano, the Rosso Toscana, and many others. (The DOC and IGT labels are usually wrapped around the neck of the bottle near the cork.)
Foods of Pitigliano:
There are several foods that Pitigliano is known for, both savory and sweet.
Migliaccio– this dish is similar to the french crepe. It is a simple mix of water, flour, extra virgin olive oil, and a bit of salt. The batter is poured into the pan, cooked like an omelet, and then served with butter and jams. YUM!
Sfratto Di Goym: This is one of Pitigliano’s most famous products and a must-try for all sweet lovers. It is a stick-like biscuit stuffed with nuts and honey. A decadent yet delightful treat.
The Sfratto Di Goym comes from a historic story from the 17th century when the Jewish people of Pitigliano, Sovana, and Sorano were forced to move to the Jewish ghetto by the Grand Duke of Tuscany. The men of the duke would knock on their doors with sticks, and the dessert is shaped like these sticks.
Kosher Wines:
I will admit that I am not as familiar with kosher traditions as perhaps I should be. But in Pitigliano, you can find wines that have been produced and bottled according to kosher rules. Be on the lookout while you are shopping for these special wines.
Cool Places to Stay in Pitigliano
Casa Marghera House Winery Bikes
This little slice of history is hosted by a charming landlady. She will provide excellent directions and advice. Her apartment is in the middle of the town and is extremely walkable. Feel free to use the bikes, have wine in the stone wine cellar, and enjoy the beautiful view. Nearby you can pick up a quick breakfast. Most importantly the apartment is dog-friendly!
Agriturismo Eco-Bio Villa Vacasio
If you prefer staying in the countryside and are looking for an eco-friendly farm stay at a local agriturismo, then this is a great option. Greeted by friendly hosts you can enjoy a room with a pleasant garden view, delicious breakfasts, walks around the property, time by the pool, and from-scratch dinners (be sure to reserve in advance.) It is only a short distance away from Pitigliano and is a welcome sanctuary after a day of adventure.
The Cave
With a name like The Cave you know you are in for a unique experience. Guests rave about the incredible view out the front door. You just can’t get better views of the town. You are welcomed to an old apartment with modern amenities. And on top of being pet-friendly, it is ridiculously affordable.
Let’s Go to Pitiligiano!
Pitigliano is more than a unique town set in Southern Tuscany, it is also a haven for great wines and tasty delights. The town invites you to explore its museums and monuments, its neighborhoods, and nature. Pitigliano will not leave you disappointed.
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