Postcard from Monteriggioni
Monteriggioni is a thirteenth century fortified town
on a hilltop in Tuscany. It was founded to defend the
city of Siena against invaders from neighboring
Florence, hence the high walls interspersed with
towers and only two entry gates. Despite being built
about 800 years ago the walls are still very much
intact.
There is seriously not much to do in the town, but if you're looking for a peaceful outing from Siena (or Florence) this is a good place to go and drink a glass - or a bottle - of wine.
There is a very good wine and cheese shop that has a few tables on the piazza, as well as a hotel, a cafe, and a tiny church where you can stop in for some prayers. Or else you could walk around the perimeter of the town, enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside, and imagine you are keeping watch for marauding bands of Florentines.
