Family Adventure in Montepulciano: Wine, History, and Culture

Whispers of History and Art

Today was a day of wandering through time, tracing the echoes of faith and artistry across the Tuscan landscape. With Pieter and Alessia in tow, our journey unfolded like a tapestry, each thread woven with the stories of centuries past. It's amazing how much history is packed into this region; every stone seems to have a tale to tell.

Our first destination was the Abbazia di Sant'Antimo, a place that exudes serenity from its very foundations. The drive there was beautiful, the rolling hills of Tuscany stretching out before us. The abbey itself is nestled in a valley, a vision of honey-colored stone against the green landscape. Legend has it that Charlemagne himself founded the abbey, and whether that's true or not, there's definitely a sense of ancient history here.


Discover the awe-inspiring Abbey of Sant'Antimo, a medieval gem set in the heart of Tuscany, offering rich history and stunning architecture.
The architecture is stunning, a mix of Carolingian and Romanesque styles. I was particularly drawn to the apse, known as the Cappella Carolingia, with its intricate carvings. The light inside the abbey was magical, filtering through the windows and illuminating the stone in a warm glow. Pieter, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the structural elements, while Alessia was more interested in the stories of monks and knights. We spent a good hour wandering around, soaking in the atmosphere and taking photos. It's a place that invites contemplation, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life. I managed to capture some beautiful shots, the kind that I know will look amazing framed back in our home in Haarlem. It felt like stepping back in time, a world away from our busy lives.

The beauty of Tuscany lies not just in its landscapes, but in the stories whispered by its ancient stones.

Next on our itinerary was Pienza, a town that Pope Pius II transformed into his vision of an ideal city. Our first stop was Palazzo Piccolomini, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Designed by Bernardo Rossellino, it's considered one of the earliest examples of the style. As we walked through the palace, I couldn't help but admire the symmetry and harmony of the design. The courtyard is particularly striking, with its elegant columns and arches. We explored the various rooms, each one filled with art and artifacts from the Piccolomini family. Alessia was fascinated by the Hall of Arms, imagining herself as a noble lady.


Experience the architectural beauty and historical significance of Palazzo Piccolomini, a Renaissance gem in the heart of Pienza, Italy.
What I found most interesting was the palace's connection to the Palazzo Rucellai in Florence, which served as inspiration for Rossellino. It's amazing to see how architectural ideas spread and evolved during the Renaissance. From the palace gardens, we enjoyed breathtaking views of the Val d'Orcia, the rolling hills stretching out as far as the eye could see. It's easy to see why Pope Pius II chose this location for his ideal city; the landscape is simply stunning.

After the Palazzo, we visited Pienza Cathedral, also known as the Cattedrale dell'Assunta. Its design is credited to Bernardo Rossellino, who worked under the direction of Pope Pius II. The cathedral's architecture is a blend of Renaissance and Gothic elements. Inside, the cathedral is filled with beautiful artwork, including altarpieces by some of the most important Sienese painters of the time. The interior feels very bright and open, which I later learned was intentional – Pope Pius II wanted worshippers to feel as though they were in a house of glass rather than stone. Alessia was particularly taken with the rose window, its colors dancing on the stone floor.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pienza Cathedral, a stunning Renaissance masterpiece nestled in the heart of Tuscany's picturesque landscape.
By this point, we were all feeling a bit peckish, so we decided to find a nice place for lunch. We chose Caffè Poliziano in Montepulciano for lunch. The cafe is located in an art nouveau building and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The café's terrace provided a perfect spot to unwind and take in the scenery. The interior was just as charming, with art nouveau decor that transported us back in time. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. I opted for a light pasta dish, while Pieter chose a more substantial meat dish. Alessia, of course, went for the gelato, which she declared to be the best she'd ever had. The food was delicious, but the view was the real highlight. As we ate, we watched the Tuscan landscape bathed in sunlight, the rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves.


Discover the flavors of Italy at Caffè Poliziano in Montepulciano – where tradition meets taste in every delightful bite.
In the late afternoon, we strolled through Montepulciano, soaking in the atmosphere of this charming town. We stopped by Enoteca La Dolce Vita for a glass of Vino Nobile, Montepulciano's famous red wine. The enoteca is located in a historic building, with brick walls and arched ceilings. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, perfect for a relaxing afternoon drink. I enjoyed the wine, savoring its rich flavor and smooth finish. Pieter, who is always up for learning something new, chatted with the owner about the history of winemaking in the region. Alessia, meanwhile, was content to sip on her sparkling water and people-watch.


Discover the enchanting flavors of Tuscany at Enoteca La Dolce Vita, Montepulciano's premier wine bar offering local wines and authentic regional cuisine.
For dinner, we chose Ristorante La Briciola in Montepulciano. The restaurant is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, with rustic decor and friendly staff. We ordered a variety of dishes, including pici pasta with wild boar ragu and grilled Florentine steak. The food was delicious, hearty and full of flavor. Alessia even tried the pici, declaring it to be her new favorite pasta. As we ate, we shared stories and laughter, feeling grateful for the experiences we'd shared throughout the day. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making excellent recommendations and ensuring we had everything we needed. The prices were reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of the food and service.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Ristorante La Briciola in Montepulciano – where every meal is a celebration of Italian culinary tradition.
As the sun began to set, we made our way back to our vacation rental, feeling tired but content. Today had been a day of spiritual and artistic discovery, a journey through the heart of Tuscany's rich history and culture. We are looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to explore Siena Cathedral, Piazza del Campo, and Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico. It promises to be another day filled with beauty, history, and unforgettable experiences. Before that though, I think I'll get some much needed rest.

Tomorrow, we're off to Siena, where I'm particularly excited to see the Siena Cathedral and Piazza del Campo. I’ve heard so much about these landmarks, and I can’t wait to capture their beauty through my lens. Alessia is already excited about the prospect of exploring another new city, and Pieter is looking forward to delving into Siena's history. We might even do some shopping at Nobile Seduzione Intimondo, a local shop. It’s all about balancing culture with a bit of fun!

Before drifting off to sleep, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the serene beauty of Sant'Antimo Abbey to the Renaissance splendor of Pienza and the charming streets of Montepulciano, Tuscany had once again captivated us with its beauty and history. It's a place that nourishes the soul, a reminder of the enduring power of art, faith, and human connection. And as I closed my eyes, I knew that these memories would stay with us long after we returned to our home in Haarlem.

We also managed to stop by Romantico for a drink after dinner. The atmosphere was indeed very romantic and calming, just as the reviews suggested. The view was incredible. I can definitely see why it's called 'Romantico'! As a final stop for the evening, it was a great choice and a great way to unwind after a long day of exploring.


Discover Romantico in Montepulciano: An authentic Italian restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and an unforgettable dining atmosphere.
Tomorrow is another day, and I'm excited to see what it holds. Goodnight from Tuscany!