Piancastagnaio is a well-kept and quiet mountain village which is characterized by a perfect balance between history and nature. Surrounded by the ancient walls, its historical centre winds around the imposing Rocca Aldobrandesca which represents one of the main attractions of the town.
This small village, of around 4,000 inhabitants, also has the characteristic of being full of imposing chestnut trees which are still visible today throughout the town. The name Piancastagnaio (Pian:Piana=plain; Castagnaio:Castagne=chestnuts) derives exactly from this.
It is a town that will welcome those looking for a peaceful stay.
Things to do in Piancastagnaio
There are a lot of attractions that you should vist, both in the religious, civil and naturalistic fields. You should definitely not miss the Rocca, churches and the historic centre. Below are points of interest that we recommend you visit:
- Rocca Aldobrandesca
- Santuario della Madonna di San Pietro
- The Church of San Filippo Neri
- The Church of Madonna delle Grazie
- Pieve di Santa Maria Assunta
- The Church of San Francesco
- Palazzo Bourbon Del Monte
- Mine Siele
- Nature Reserve Pigelleto
Traditions and Folklore
You should definitely not miss the typical Palio delle Contrade, where every year, on August 18th, the four city quarters Coro, Voltaia, Borgo and Castello compete to win the victory banner. The period preceding the Palio is characterized by various events that change every year, organized individually by city quarters above mentioned.
Also noteworthy is “Asta e bacchetta” manifestation that since the 2006 has rewarded the best choreography of the city quarter. It take place before the “Palio” itself.
A special mention must be made to the traditional chestnut festival called “il Crastatone” which takes place in the first days of November every year and which attracts thousands of tourists from the surrounding areas. All the typical chestnut-based products are presented in the streets of the historic centre, full of markets, good wine, and lots of music.
Historical background
It seems necessary to mention a few things on the past to stimulate your curiosity and encourage you to delve deeper. Since the 7th century this village has been the part of the properties linked to the Abbazia del Santissimo Salvatore, located in the town of Abbadia San Salvatore. It was obtained as a feud by Aldobrandeschi of Sovana. Once the latter had been extinguished, the town became a fiefdom of Orvieto first and Siena later, to which it remained faithful until the mid-1500s, years in which Siena itself was overwhelmed by Florence. Subsequently given as a fief to various recipients, the town will finally conquer its independence in 1777.
Are you looking for a hotel or a farmhouse? See the where to stay page on our website.
If you want to eat, discover the restaurants available.
Siti istituzionali e di interesse
