Discover Murlo: Etruscan Traces and Routes

Murlo combines cultural and historical heritage with landscape-oriented routes and a permanent cycling route.

Etruscan History in the Small Borgo

In the centre of the small borgo of Murlo, the Antiquarium di Poggio Civitate has been established in the former bishop's palace. The museum houses archaeological finds from the municipality of Murlo, including, in particular, finds from the important Etruscan archaeological site of Poggio Civitate. This gives the area a cultural focus that leads directly into its early history.

The excavations at Poggio Civitate uncovered the remains of Etruscan palaces in a ruling complex. An Orientalising and an Archaic building phase from the 7th and 6th centuries BC can be identified there. The oldest building, also described as Orientalising, is dated to around 630 BC. This gives you an unusually concrete insight into the various phases of Etruscan architectural history.

Castello, Walls and an Old Parish Church

The Castello di Murlo is part of the historic townscape. It was the main centre of the episcopal fief and the seat of the bishops of Siena. The history of the town is also reflected in the walls surrounding the borgo or Castello di Murlo. They are still visible along almost the entire perimeter. There are two gates along this perimeter: one in the north and one in the south or west.

Another cultural and historical landmark is the Pieve di S. Maria a Carli. It is a church in the hamlet of Pieve a Carli near Murlo, documented since 1081 and restored in 1767. Its chronology therefore extends from the Middle Ages to a documented restoration in the 18th century.

Basso Merse Natural Area and Routes

The Basso Merse Nature Reserve covers part of the municipality of Murlo. A path in this protected area leads to the Eremo di Montespecchio hermitage, also known as “Conventaccio”. Nature and culture come together here through a specific destination, without requiring you to view the landscape solely from the town centre.

For a manageable hiking plan, there is also the circular route to the excavations at Poggio Civitate. It is just under 5 km long and begins and ends in Murlo.

Which Highlights Suit Your Trip

When choosing your hotel in Murlo, you can organise your travel interests in advance. The cultural focus lies with the Antiquarium, Poggio Civitate, the Castello, the visible walls and the Pieve di S. Nature and route-related themes include the Basso Merse Nature Reserve, the path to the Eremo di Montespecchio and the circular route of just under 5 km. This allows you to base your accommodation choice on the mix of themes you would like to pursue during your trip.

Discover More Places

You can also explore Vescovado Di Murlo, Bagnaia and Casciano as a complement to your trip.

For the overarching travel overview: Siena.

More Destinations

More places in the same destination:

Chiusdino, Torri, Radicondoli, Badesse, Monteroni D'arbia.