Montegiovi among castle ruins, churches and trails

Montegiovi among castle ruins and sacred art

Montegiovi combines medieval traces, religious art, the history of its paths and artisanal traditions. The remains of the old castle of Montegiovi include a polygonal tower and an arched gateway. A special historical connection leads to Saint Catherine of Siena: she stayed in Montegiovi in 1377. Thus, Montegiovi brings together tangible architectural evidence and Saint Catherine of Siena's historical stay as two distinct historical references.

Churches dating back several centuries

The Church of Sant'Elena dates back to the 11th century and houses a painting depicting Saint Helena and the discovery of the True Cross. The Church of San Martino dates back to the 13th century. Madonna degli Schiavi is also associated with several artistic and architectural references: the Oratory of Madonna degli Schiavi houses a fresco of the Madonna and Child, which some critics associate with the school of Simone Martini. The Church of Madonna degli Schiavi was built during the Renaissance as a rural chapel at the foot of an ancient fortified village and was remodeled in the 19th century.

Hiking and art in the Giardino di Piero Bonacina

The official hiking trail Itinerario 615 passes through Seggiano, Montegiovi, Montelaterone, Santa Caterina and Roccalbegna. The Giardino di Piero Bonacina in Montegiovi displays the artist's sculptures made from iron, concrete, wood, sandstone from Manciano and travertine from Saturnia. In this way, Montegiovi brings together an established hiking trail and an exhibition featuring clearly different materials.

Mountains, monasteries and castles in the surrounding area

Several mountains are located around Montegiovi: Monte Cucco, Monte Buceto, Monte Aquilaia and Monte Amiata. The Abbazia di Sant'Antimo and the Abbazia di San Salvatore are also located nearby, each classified as a monastery. In the wider regional area around Montegiovi lies Castello Banfi, a castle. The Fortezza di Montalcino is also located there; it is a fortress.

Crafts and local specialties

Montegiovi is considered the home of basket weavers who used to hand-weave baskets and containers from willow branches. The Festa della Saracia celebrates Montegiovi's local cherry with sweet treats, jams and a complete cherry-based menu. The Sagra della Bruschetta e dell'Olio Nuovo offers the first seasonal pressing of the new olive oil for tasting. Cherry and new olive oil thus represent two clearly distinct aspects of the local festival culture.

Via Siena and the September celebrations

The historical connection to Saint Catherine of Siena links Montegiovi to the ancient Vi’ Siena, which led into the Via Francigena. During the September celebrations in honor of Madonna degli Schiavi, a religious procession passes through Montegiovi on Sunday morning, accompanied by offerings from the local population and a brass band.

To the main travel overview: Castel Del Piano.