Rapolano terme

An area rich in sulphurous waters and cave

Rapolano is located on the edge of the Crete Senesi area characterized by clay hills. The village historically belonged to the counts Scialenghi and was under the protection of Siena. Rapolano was the city protected by Siena, and that was the cause of much turbulence. The raids of the Spanish and of fiorentini, bitter enemies of Siena, culminated in 1554, with the complete destruction of the Castle of Rapolano and Armaiolo.

Today the town still preserves large tracts of ancient walls, towers and gates. Interesting are the 13th-century Porta dei Tintori and Pieve vecchia di San Vittore, in Romanesque style.

For centuries, the primary sources of subsistence for Rapolano were the travertine quarries and the hot springs. The extraction from the quarries is attested since 1500, and between 800 and 900 lived moments of great success.

The sulphurous, instead, used in spas for mud baths and inhalations, are recommended for the treatment of arthritis and dermatological diseases. Terme di San Giovanni is the oldest and, not far from the city, you will also find the Terme Antica Querciolaia.

 

Traditions and Typical products

As for the culinary tradition is a must visit the focaccia di Rapolano. Despite its name, this is not a salted product but a sweet.

The panella of Rapolano, instead, is a flavorful dough fried in olive oil. Another typical dish from the area are the famous pici, handmade long pasta according to tradition.

 

Photo Credits [quinewssiena.it]