Pontassieve

AN IMPORTANT AGRICULTURAL CENTRE SINCE THE MIDDLE AGES

Pontassieve means "bridge over the river Sieve" and is the main town of the homonymous Valley. The town stretches along the banks of the river Sieve, East of Florence.  The land surrounding the town are intended largely to the cultivation of olive trees and vines. Several wineries are located here, including the famous company Ruffino and Frescobaldi.

Just outside the town, surrounded by vineyards and cypress trees, stands the Castello di Torre a Decima (1399). Near the fortress stands a small Chapel, built in honor of Saint Maria Maddalena de' Pazzi. The Santuario Madonna del Sasso stands on Monte Giovi to 565 m above sea level and dominates the whole Val di Sieve. It was built in 1490 in Florentine style.

 

Traditions

The art of stuffing the fiasco was a craft in the area. At one time, the so-called fiascaie met in small groups and covered with straw the flasks designed to contain the wine.

 

Typical products

In Pontassieve, every year between May and June, comes to life Toscanello d'Oro. For almost fifty years is possible, thanks to this event, see the farms scattered on the territory. During these festive days you can participate in the many wine and food initiatives that include wine tasting, oil and typical products of Tuscan cuisine. Pontassieve is also famous for the cultivation of saffron.

 

Photo Credits [comune.pontassieve.it]