Chianti Origo

Chianti Origo is a cultural hub established in 2024 in Gaiole in Chianti, with the aim of narrating and promoting the many identities of the local area. Hosted in the evocative spaces of the former Ricasoli Cellars, the complex offers visitors an experience that weaves together art, history, wine culture and a passion for cycling.

Given the strong tourism and wine-making vocation of the surrounding territory, Chianti Origo was conceived as a multimedia hub bringing together 4 exhibit areas:

• The Museo alle Origini del Chianti (Museum of the Origins of Chianti), as the archaeological heart of the project;
• Terre di Gaiole, dedicated to the local wine-making tradition;
• The Galleria Olmastroni, an artistic space paying tribute to painter Cesare Olmastroni;
• Casa Eroica, an immersive area dedicated to the world of vintage cycling and the renowned cycling event born in Gaiole and now celebrated worldwide.

The visitor experience begins at the Museo alle Origini del Chianti that, through a rich collection of archeological finds, tells the history of the territory from the Etruscan era to the Middle Ages. Many of the artefacts come from excavations undertaken over 50 years by the Florida State University at the settlement of Cetamura. These are complemented by materials from the Roman Villa of Monti in Chianti and the Necropolis of San Giusto a Rentennano. Enhanced by multimedia installations, the exhibition offers an accessible and engaging narrative on the relationship between people, environment and landscape over the centuries.

Alongside its archaeological dimension, Chianti Origo exalts the more contemporary aspects of the territory. The Terre di Gaiole section explores the evolution of Chianti Classico production, emphasizing the deep connection between community, landscape and wine culture, while Casa Eroica conveys the social and cultural value of cycling through interactive experiences that allow visitors to be immersed in the spirit of L’Eroica.

The complex stands out for its inclusive approach to communicating the local heritage, combining traditional storytelling with digital technologies to engage a broad audience, from casual visitors and schools to enthusiasts and international tourists.