|
|
|
|
Montepulciano
|
Montepulciano presents the characteristic aspect of its origins as a mediaeval urban centre: perched on a hill that rises between the Valdichiana and the Val d'Orcia, it clings to the traditional Tuscan houses of stone and brick.
Legend has it that Montepulciano was founded by the mythical Etruscan King Porsenna. It's more likely, however, that it originated as the property of the Roman "Gens Publicii", from which it would have derived its name "Monte Publiciano".
Montepulciano became a municipality at the beginning of the 14th century. For a long time it was contested between Siena and Florence, but was finally established as part of the Medici seigneury in 1511. This period of Montepulciano's history is studded with internal struggles between the noble families who strove to gain local power.
But these families also have the distinction of having made Montepulciano a city that could compete with Siena and even Florence in the grandeur of its public and private buildings. Montepulciano today is almost identical to what it was four hundred years ago. Its palazzi and narrow streets form an historic centre in which time seems to have stood still, leaving the beauty and majesty of the Renaissance buildings intact.
The works of Antonio Sangallo the Elder, Andrea Pozzo, Vignola and Michelozzo alternate with each other on an itinerary that starts at the lowest gate and ascends through the town to reach the Piazza Grande. In the Piazza are the Palazzo Comunale designed by Michelozzo, the Palazzo Contucci and Palazzo Nobili-Taurgi of Sangallo, the distinctive "Pozzo dei Grifi e dei Leoni" (the well of the gryphons and lions), and the cathedral, which houses the triptych of Taddeo di Bartolo.
|
|
Other works of art are to be found in the various churches (such as the Madonna and Child of Duccio di Boninsegna in the church of Sant'Agostino) and in the Civic Museum of Montepulciano.
Montepulciano is also known for its famed wine, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and for its excellent local cuisine.
In addition to its artistic and architectural heritage, its pristine environment and the exceptional quality of life it offers, Montepulciano prides itself on a calendar of activities that range from culture to art and from the revival of historical traditions to folklore.
Of particular attraction to bird watchers is the LIPU WWF oasis of Montepulciano Lake.
The primary cultural initiative is the ""Cantiere Internazionale d'Arte"", a summer arts festival that is primarily musical but also provides a venue for drama, dance and figurative arts.
Another important event is the "Bruscello", the performance of a folk tale in the old style of country theatre.
The "Bravio delle Botti" on the other hand, evokes the mediaeval history of Montepulciano in a challenge between the eight "contrade" (guilds) that have divided the town since 1337.
|
|
|
|
|
|
