An itinerary to discover Tuscan wine and food treasures and archaeological Etruscan remains
The word ‘Etruscan’ takes us on a mental journey through fascinating local history. For centuries, this ancient civilisation has captivated archaeologists and enthusiasts, who seek to discover more and more about its culture and unravel the enigmas. Tuscany, a land rich in Etruscan archaeological remains, offers numerous opportunities to learn more about the Etruscans, both through museum itineraries and archaeological sites. It is also a land notoriously devoted to viticulture, an activity that existed at the time of the Etruscans, who considered wine a precious treasure. In fact, it was produced in large quantities and sold throughout the Mediterranean.
The itinerary described below, retraces the Tuscan wine routes to discover the Etruscan civilization; routes where the nectar that made Tuscany famous throughout the world is mixed with archaeology, in a tasty and fascinating combination.
We can start from the queen land of wine, Chianti; the historic village of Barberino Tavarnelle houses in the rooms annexed to the Parish church of Sant'Appiano the Antiquarium from the precious collection of Etruscan artifacts found in the neighboring areas inhabited since the 8th century BC.
We continue into the Arezzo countryside, finding ourselves in the presence of wonderful Cortona and its rich past. A visit to the Etruscan Academy Museum and the archaeological park is not to be missed.
Next stop is Torrita di Siena, a village surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, where the famous vinsanto is produced in Montefollonico, and we arrive in Montepulciano, the town known for its wines and underground cellars. In San Quirico d'Orcia and Castiglione d'Orcia, just stroll through the streets to immerse yourself in history and food and wine.
Between Pitigliano and Scansano, two wine-growing and archaeological stops not to be missed, the route passes by the Vie cave which are spectacular paths dug into tuff rock, amidst moss and lichens, created by the Etruscans thousands of years ago.
Near Grossetto, the archaeological area of Roselle and the Etruscan sites and finds in Gavorrano are the prelude to the end of the itinerary, which finishes with a visit to Civitella Paganico and a recently found small Etruscan tomb.
An itinerary filled with history and archaeology and the finest Tuscan wines such as Chianti DOCG, Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, Orcia DOC, Bianco di Pitigliano DOC, Morellino di Scansano DOCG.