The small hamlet of Cana in the municipality of Roccalbegna is a crossroads of alleys that surround the main square and overlooks the surrounding landscape. The town is located on the slopes of Monte Amiata in an elevated position that enjoys a magnificent view of woods and olive groves, and also partially faces the Albegna river valley.
The origins of Cana date back to the Middle Ages. For a long time, the town - as well as the whole territory - were owned by the Aldobrandeschi family, before passing under the control of the Republic of Siena and subsequently the Medici family. Traces of past centuries remain, such as some sections of the centuries-old walls that outlined the original castle.
Strolling through the alleys immersed in silence, you will find the Church of San Martino and the Church of the Madonna del Conforto. The small square around which the town develops preserves a 17th-century Medici cistern: this system of supplying water resources made it possible to collect rainwater by channeling it into an ingenious system of pipes that connected to the central body of the cistern.
The surroundings of Cana are dominated by the lush green of the Amiata forests, with many paths that are suitable for excursions and where you'll find charming places. One of these is the historic fortified farm of Castagnolo (in the destination of the same name), where the mysterious "Buca di Pietro Pinca" is located. Legend has it that the hole was an evil trap set by the lord of the farm, although it appears more likely it was a section of the barn.
Cana comes alive every year thanks to the Medieval Festival and the Sagra della Biondina (local term for roasted chestnuts), where the autumnal mountain flavours are at the centre of the celebrations.
