When looking for an ideal place to book a vacation somewhere warm, sunny and steeped in history, the first place that should come to mind is the rolling hills of Tuscany. The region’s villas make the perfect base of accommodation from which to visit the ancient cities of Florence and Pisa to explore the rich artistic culture, but when you venture into the smaller towns your itinerary should include at least a few of the many castles. historical. scattered throughout the rural landscape of the region.

With seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, there is no end to the history to be discovered in the area. As a starting point, head out to see Cacciaconti Castle, the Rocca of Tentennano, and Brolio Castle, all of which will be just a short drive from any of the Tuscany villas.

The castle of Cacciaconti

When you’re on a mission to explore the castles within easy reach of your Tuscany villas, your itinerary should definitely include a day trip to the medieval town of Trequanda. It is here that historically the road from Siena passed through Chiusi and it became an important place of power. Sitting high on a hill above the city, the castle was built in the 13th century by the powerful Cacciaconti family. The walls surrounded the city with five towers and three gates that joined the main circular tower of the castle. Two of the three gates remain along with some vestiges of the original walls, but the castle was damaged in World War II and much of it has been restored.

rock of tentenano

Rocca d’Orcia was established as early as 853 BC, however it was not until the area came under Sienese rule in the 1200s that the castle of Rocca di Tentennano was fortified and built. The castle was once in the hands of the upstart Cocco Salimbeni, who abandoned it in 1419; it was used for military purposes until the 16th century, when Siena bowed to Florence. (The castle came under the power of Florence when the Sienese troops deserted and simply opened the gates.) Over time, the castle was forgotten and today it is mainly visited by people who want to explore the history of the area and enjoy beautiful views. del valle Visitors can really get an idea of ​​what an old castle fortress looked like, as it has not been disturbed in hundreds of years.

Brolio Castle

When staying in any of the wonderful villas in Tuscany, vacation plans should definitely include visiting some castles and tasting some wine, and it’s even better when the same place can provide you with both! In southern Chianti, the castle of Brolio can do just that. Started in the Middle Ages, the castle was at the heart of the region of the bitter conflict between Florence and Siena: throughout history and up to the Second World War, the castle witnessed many battles and suffered extensive damage. In modern times, the castle has been expertly rebuilt around its authentic ancient features, such as medieval bastions and unique 19th-century Tuscan details. When you visit the Castle of Brolio, you will not only be able to take a tour of the fortress, but you will also find yourself in the largest vineyard in the Chianti Classico region. It is an absolute pleasure to taste the wines produced here, made since the Ricasoli family took possession of the castle in the 12th century.