Ciggiano – Village History, Wine and Paths through the Valdichiana

Ciggiano between Fortifications and the Valdichiana

Ciggiano brings together local history, wine tradition and paths through the Tuscan hills within a small area. A walk through the streets of the small town centre reveals ancient fortifications. Ciggiano is described as a village fortified in the 11th century. Those wishing to combine culture and landscape during their stay will therefore find a range of points of interest here: historic buildings in the town, views over the Valdichiana and paths that offer several ways to explore the area.

Wine and Local History

In the heart of Ciggiano, the Museo della Vite e del Vino is housed in the rooms of the Vecchio Mulino. The museum presents the various stages of wine production – from the grape harvest through winemaking to bottling. The Museo della Vite e del Vino also offers themed tastings featuring local products. The focus is therefore not only on the finished product, but also on the process through which wine is made. Several churches add to the historic character of the area. The Church of San Biagio was elevated to parish church status in 1465. Inside is a sculpture of Saint Mary Magdalene from the early 16th century, attributed to Andrea Sansovino. The Church of San Pietro has medieval origins. Outside the town stands the Church of Santa Maria, built in 1635 along the route of a transhumance trail. The Church of della Costarella also reflects the connection between village history and rural life. It is now dedicated to the Madonna; during transhumance, shepherds and their flocks rested beneath its porticoes. Such connections make the paths and buildings around Ciggiano readable as part of an evolved cultural landscape, without reducing the town to a handful of individual sights.

Route, Festival and Walks through the Hills

The municipal route “I nuclei di collina” leads through Tuori, Dorna, Oliveto, Ciggiano, Cornia and Gaenne. The approximately 40-kilometre excursion is completed by car and on foot. It therefore connects several stops and different ways of experiencing the surroundings, rather than presupposing only a single walk around the town centre. Another way to experience the landscape is offered by the Festa dell'uva, olio e vino. The festival has a tradition spanning decades; the first event took place on 25 September 1952. As part of the Festa held in September, the Pro Loco has organised the “Camminata” for years, leading through hills, vineyards, unspoilt woods and centuries-old olive groves. For planning your trip, Ciggiano can thus be discovered through both its buildings and the wine, olives and paths of the hilly landscape. Above the town walls, a built terrace offers views over almost the entire Valdichiana. Ciggiano is accessible free of charge every day, around the clock. You can discover other places in this selection under [Pieve A Maiano](Pieve A Maiano), [Badia Al Pino](Badia Al Pino), [Tegoleto](Tegoleto) and [Albergo](Albergo).

To the overview of the wider travel area: Civitella In Val Di Chiana.