Cutting edge of Val d'Orcia
Pienza is a picturesque village in the Val d'Orcia UNESCO declared a world heritage site in 1996.
Why is the ideal Renaissance City?
South of Siena, a few steps from San Quirico d'Orcia and Castiglione d'Orcia surrounded by gentle hills and breathtaking views, Pienza is also known for being the ideal Renaissance City.
It was created to designs by Enea Silvio Piccolomini who became Pope Pius II. In just three years the architect Rossellino said with the help of the humanist Leon Battista Alberti released: the Cathedral, the Town Hall, the main square and the Papal residence or Palazzo Piccolomini.
The Duomo or Cathedral of the Assunta houses important paintings; to the right of the Duomo stands Palazzo Piccolomini with a Loggia and a beautiful garden from which you can admire the whole valley.
In particular, the most striking accomplishment when you arrive at Pienza, Piazza Pio II, since with its warm tones (Sienna) and shape geometrically perfect gives harmony to the buildings that surround it.
When you say Pienza say "cacio"
Pienza as well as being one of the most charming villages of Tuscany is famous for being the home of pecorino, which is also called "cacio".
This is a very tasty cheese, more or less, that you can find in the shops of the city.
Map