We are looking forward to several retreats in Tuscany this year and thought we would highlight some of the charming Italian towns we visit while there. (Our Itinerary changes depending on the retreat and time of year but this will give you some insight into the region.) Below learn a bit about Chiusi, Montepulciano and Cortona…
We usually begin our week with a visit to the nearby Etruscan hilltop town of Chiusi, where we’ll enjoy a walking tour and a stop for lunch. During the Etruscan era, Chiusi became one of the main cities in the whole Etruscan city network; in the 6th century BC, the town began to form its first contacts with Rome. It was at this time, towards the end of the 6th century BC, that the Etruscan King Porsenna laid siege to Rome and probably conquered it. We will visit the historic centre, the piazza del Duomo and its deeply historic, evocative Co-Cathedral of San Secondiano, whose interior recalls the most beautiful Early-Christian basilicas in Rome. Quick language lesson: In Italian, Ch has the "k" sound and C has the "ch" sound. Hence, Chiusi is pronouncesd "K - you - see" or "Que-see".
Next we’ll explore the hill town of Montepulciano and enjoy an Italian coffee tasting in one of the historic cafes. Montepulciano is a medieval and Renaissance hill town and comune in the Italian province of Siena in southern Tuscany. The city, full of elegant Renaissance palaces, ancient churches, charming squares and hidden corners, boasts vast panoramas all over the wonderful Val d'Orcia and Val di Chiana valleys that surround it.
We will also fit in a visit to the town of Cortona, famed from Under the Tuscan Sun, and find an artisan workshop in the area to learn from and see how some of the quality products and crafts in this area are produced. Cortona, originally founded by the Etruscans under the name “Curtun,” still retains many of its original remains from the Etruscan period. It also boasts a rich history, including stories of famous Renaissance artists such as Luca Signorelli and Beato Angelico, as well as Pietro di Cortona from the Baroque period. Cortona is also full of splendid churches spanning many periods.
We can’t wait for the upcoming retreats and would love for you to join us. Check our our RETREAT page for a full listing of available dates.