High up on a hill in the Tuscan countryside sits this old town with an ancient castle, centuries-old churches and burial sites that date back to Etruscan times.
Castellina in Chianti is an ancient town of cobblestone streets and old buildings. Situated on a hilltop at the crossroads of three valleys, the town has commanding views of the surrounding countryside. Tour historical churches and fortifications, shop in medieval streets and visit burial sites that are more than 2,000 years old.
Discover Castellina's past in the many centuries-old buildings and ancient sites in and around the town. Explore the Rocca Comunale of Castellina, the old fortress that towers over the rest of the town. It houses an archeological museum featuring relics excavated from the local area. See Bronze Age and Etruscan finds, including an Etruscan chariot and medieval artifacts. While you are at the castle, head up the 14th-century tower for views over the town and the surrounding landscape.
Visit the neo-Romanesque Church of San Salvatore, which was rebuilt after the devastation of World War II. Inside is a 15th-century fresco depicting the Virgin Mary with Child. Walk down the Via delle Volte, a covered passageway that skirts the ancient walls and is lined with shops and restaurants.
A short walking distance from the town center is Montecalvario, an Etruscan tomb with four burial chambers. Objects that were found here are now on display in the Museum of Archeology of Chianti Senese at Castellina’s Piazza del Comune. Uncover more history at the Etruscan Necropolis of Poggino, a few minutes’ drive from Castellina. The site features five Etruscan tombs that date back to the 6th century B.C.
Enjoy the town's hospitality in the restaurants on Via Ferruccio, the main street. There are also numerous shops along this street.
Reach Castellina in Chianti’s ancient streets, buildings and archeological sites by bus and train from several other Chianti destinations. Note that the train station is a few miles from the town. The nearest international airport is in Florence, which is 31 miles (49.9 kilometers) north.