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Castle · Siena, Toscana
Monteriggioni
Walled village from the 13th century on a hill about 15 km from Siena, with 14 towers on the wall and a walk along the ramparts. Dante mentioned it in the Inferno.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Monteriggioni
Monteriggioni is a small walled castle village atop a hill about 15 km north of Siena. It was built by the Sienese between 1213 and 1219 as an outpost against Florence, controlling the Via Francigena, the road used by pilgrims heading to Rome.
The wall, about 570 metres long, forms almost a circle and retains 14 towers. The image struck Dante, who in Canto XXXI of the Inferno compared the giants around the infernal pit to the towers that crown Monteriggioni.
Inside the walls the village is small: the Piazza Roma, with the Romanesque church of Santa Maria Assunta, and a few streets lined with stone houses, shops and restaurants. Two sections of the walls have walkways open to visitors, with views over the Chianti hills and the Montagnola Senese, and there is a small armoury museum. In July a medieval festival is usually held.
Given its proximity, Monteriggioni fits well into an afternoon trip from Siena or as a stop on the way between Siena and San Gimignano.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours, including the walk along the walls.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the low light enhances the towers and the village becomes quieter. The medieval festival usually takes place in July.
How to get there
By car it is about 15 km from Siena via the Siena–Florence road, with parking at the foot of the village. There are buses from Siena that stop on the road below; from there it’s a few minutes' walk uphill.
Tip
The centre is closed to cars: park in the courtyards below the walls. Bring sturdy footwear for the ascent and for the walkways.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Monteriggioni
How long does it take from Siena to Monteriggioni?
About 20 minutes by car, over the 15 km road linking Siena to Florence. By bus it's a bit longer, with a walk uphill at the end.
Can you walk along the walls?
Yes, there are sections with walkways open to visitors, which are charged separately. Check the opening times beforehand.
Is Monteriggioni worth a stop on the way to San Gimignano?
Yes. It's between Siena and Poggibonsi and a one- to two-hour visit fits well into a driving route.