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Pitigliano: A Tuscan Village with a Jewish Soul

Have you ever dreamed of visiting a fairy tale village in the heart of Tuscany, where history, culture, and nature blend together in perfect harmony? If so, you should not miss Pitigliano.

Photo by Getty Images

Discover the historic centre.

The historic centre of Pitigliano is like a stone labyrinth, where you can wander and admire the old houses, churches, and palaces that date back to the medieval and Renaissance periods. Some of the most remarkable monuments are the Orsini Palace, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, and the Orsini Fortress.


You can also explore the Jewish Quarter, where you can find the synagogue, the kosher oven, the mikveh (ritual bath), and the cantina (wine cellar).


Learn about the local culture.

Pitigliano has several museums that will enrich your knowledge of the history and art of this village and its people. You can visit the Museum of Etruscan Civilization to see exhibits and tombs from this area's ancient civilisations. You can also visit the Orsini Palace Museum, where you can learn about the life and works of the Orsini family, who ruled Pitigliano for centuries. The Museum of Jewish Culture is where you can discover the customs and traditions of the Jewish community of Pitigliano.


Experience the vie cave.

The vie cave are old roads dug into the tuff rock by the Etruscans. They are surrounded by high walls and vegetation, creating a mystical and mysterious environment. You can walk along these paths and enjoy nature and silence. Some of the most famous vie cave are those of San Giuseppe, San Rocco, and Fratenuti.


Savour the local cuisine.

Pitigliano has a rich and varied gastronomy. You can taste some of the typical dishes, such as acquacotta, a vegetable soup with bread and cheese, sfratto, a pastry filled with honey and nuts, and Bianco di Pitigliano, a white wine. You can also try kosher dishes, such as matzah, unleavened bread, haroset, a fruit and nut paste, and carciofi alla giudia, fried artichokes.


Join the festivities

Pitigliano hosts several festivals throughout the year that celebrate its heritage and traditions. You can join some of these events, such as Torciata di San Giuseppe, a fire festival in March, Settembre diVino, a wine festival in September, and European Day of Jewish Culture, a cultural event in September.


Explore the surroundings

Pitigliano is a strategic base to explore other attractions in Southern Maremma. You can visit nearby charming villages, such as Sorano, Sovana, Saturnia, Montemerano, and Manciano. You can also enjoy some natural wonders, such as Saturnia's thermal baths, Mulino's waterfalls, and Selva del Lamone's nature reserve.


Photo by Michael Baccin


Pitigliano is a place that will enchant your senses and your imagination. You will feel like you are in a different world, where time has stopped, and history is alive. You will be amazed by the beauty and charm of this village, where every corner has a story to tell. You will be welcomed by the friendly and hospitable people who will make you feel at home.


When to visit?

The best time to visit Pitigliano is from April to October. During this period, you can enjoy hiking, wine tasting, and cultural events. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit Pitigliano in the low season, from November to March, when the town is quieter and more authentic. You can still appreciate the beauty and charm of Pitigliano. Still, you may find some attractions and services closed or reduced.


How do I get here?

The easiest way to get to Pitigliano is by car, as the town is located in a remote area of southern Tuscany, not well served by public transportation.


The nearest airports are Rome-Fiumicino (150km), Rome-Ciampino (169km), Pisa Galileo Galilei International Airport (235km) and Amerigo Vespucci International Airport (198km).


If you prefer to travel by train, the nearest railway stations are Grosseto (80km), Albinia (50km), Orbetello (57km) and Viterbo (57km). From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Pitigliano.


You can also take a bus from Siena, Florence, or Grosseto.

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