A short story about the birth of an ideal beauty
Pienza is named after its native Pope Pius II, who decided to transform the original village of Corsignano into a model of the perfect urban space. For this he called on the architect Bernardo Rossellino, a pupil of Leonardo da Vinci himself. The result? A city where geometry, proportion and light play together like a well-tuned orchestra.
In Piazza Pio II you'll find:
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The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta - bright, elegant, open to the valley to let the divine light flow in.
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Palazzo Piccolomini - the residence of the Pope with a magnificent panoramic loggia that opens up the most beautiful view of the Val d'Orcia.
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Palazzo Comunale - the town hall with its bell tower.
Pecorino
Pienza is a paradise for cheese lovers. And not just any cheese - Pecorino di Pienza is one of the best in Tuscany. It can be soft, delicately buttery, or strongly ripened with hints of nuts and hay.
A stroll through the town is actually such a fragrant adventure, you'll find small cheesemakerscheese shops, open cellars with ripening pecorino or shops offering tastings and accompanying wines.
Our tip: Pecorino stagionato with a drizzle of Val d'Orcia honey. Or with truffle!
Walks not to be forgotten
Val d'Orcia is a landscape that has its own rhythm. And Pienza is the perfect base for hiking, taking photos and wandering among the vineyards and cypress trees.
The most famous route is Pienza - Monticchiello. A romantic, 6 km long path between pastures, with winding roads and breathtaking panoramas. And yes, this is where Instagram photos are taken, where the paths zigzag between cypress trees.
Tips you want to know
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When to arrive: May-June and September-October are best (warm days, softer light, fewer tourists).
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Where to sit for coffee: Piazza di Spagna - a quiet place away from the main stream.
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Best experience: sunset on the panoramic terrace at Via dell'Amore (yes, that's really its name).
Why you'll love Pienza
Pienza isn't about "sights crossed off the map". It's about the feeling. It's about the soft light, the quiet of the streets, the smell of cheese and hay. A landscape that heals the soul. A place where you can just be.
