Family Adventure in the Heart of Tuscany: Montepulciano

A Day Among Art and Towers

Today, Montepulciano revealed more of its captivating character, drawing us deeper into its historical embrace. It's amazing how each day here seems to peel back another layer of this ancient town, revealing something new and wonderful. Liam, Maya, and I set out with a sense of anticipation, eager to explore the attractions that awaited us.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Il Pozzo Montepulciano. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of authentic Tuscan flavors were exactly what we needed to start our day. As we sat down, the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air. I ordered a simple yet satisfying breakfast of *pane tostato* with *marmellata*, while Liam opted for scrambled eggs with *pancetta*. Maya, of course, couldn't resist a *croissant* filled with *crema*. The food was delicious, but it was the warm and inviting ambiance of Il Pozzo that truly made our morning special. It felt like we were locals, starting our day in our favorite neighborhood spot.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Il Pozzo Montepulciano, where traditional recipes meet modern culinary artistry.

Fueled and ready, our first stop was the Museo Civico Pinacoteca Crociani. Housed in the Palazzo Neri Orselli, a stunning example of 14th-century Sienese architecture, the museum promised a journey through Montepulciano's artistic heritage. As we approached the Palazzo, I couldn't help but admire its façade, a testament to the town's rich history. Inside, we were greeted by a treasure trove of art, spanning from the 14th to the 19th centuries. Maya was immediately drawn to the vibrant colors and intricate details of the paintings, while Liam and I were fascinated by the stories behind each artwork.


Discover the artistic legacy of Tuscany at Museo Civico Pinacoteca Crociani, a hidden gem in Montepulciano showcasing Renaissance art and history.

The museum's collection is largely thanks to Francesco Crociani, who had the foresight to gather a significant number of paintings reflecting the artistic tastes of his era. I was particularly moved by the 13th-century St. Francis of Assisi by Margaritone d'Arezzo, its simple yet powerful depiction resonating deeply. Liam, with his keen eye for detail, was captivated by the *Coronation of the Virgin* by Jacopo di Mino del Pellicciaio, admiring the artist's masterful use of color and composition. Maya, ever curious, was intrigued by *Children Playing with Cat* attributed to Abraham Bloemart, giggling at the playful scene. The museum wasn't just a collection of art; it was a portal into the past, offering glimpses into the lives and stories of those who came before us.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Leaving the museum, we made our way to the Pulcinella Tower. The tower itself is charming, but what makes it truly special is the Pulcinella figure perched atop, striking the hour on the clock. Maya was absolutely delighted by this whimsical character, a symbol of Naples finding its home in the heart of Tuscany. We waited with bated breath as Pulcinella chimed the hour, its playful presence adding a touch of levity to the historical surroundings. I couldn't help but wonder about the story behind this Neapolitan figure in Montepulciano. Legend has it that a bishop or priest from Campania brought the clock from Naples in the 17th century as a tribute to his homeland. Whatever the reason, Pulcinella has become an integral part of Montepulciano's identity, a reminder that even in the most historic of places, there's always room for a bit of whimsy.


Discover the iconic Pulcinella Tower in Montepulciano, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Tuscany's rich history.

For lunch, we chose Ristorante Godimento Divino, drawn in by the promise of traditional Tuscan cuisine and a panoramic terrace. We were not disappointed. The restaurant, nestled in a picturesque corner of Montepulciano's historic center, offered breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. We started with *crostini toscani*, a classic Tuscan appetizer, followed by *pici al ragu* for Liam and me, and *ravioli di spinaci* for Maya. The food was exquisite, each dish bursting with fresh, local flavors. But it was the view from the terrace that truly elevated our dining experience. As we savored our meal, we gazed out at the rolling hills of Tuscany, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over us.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Godimento Divino in Montepulciano – a culinary treasure featuring local flavors and exquisite wines.

After lunch, we decided to take a drive to Val d'Orcia da Montepulciano, seeking to immerse ourselves in the iconic Tuscan landscape. As we drove, the scenery unfolded before us like a postcard, with rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and picturesque farmhouses dotting the countryside. We stopped at several viewpoints along the way, each offering a unique perspective on the breathtaking scenery. Maya was particularly excited to spot sheep grazing in the fields, their fluffy white coats contrasting against the green hills. The Val d'Orcia is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The landscape is a masterpiece of nature and human cultivation, a testament to the harmonious relationship between people and the land.


Explore the iconic Val d'Orcia observation deck for stunning views of Tuscany's rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns.

Our last stop of the day was Enoteca La Dolce Vita - Montepulciano, a wine bar that promised a taste of the region's renowned wines. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with walls lined with bottles of local wines. I decided to try a glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, the region's flagship wine, while Liam opted for a Rosso di Montepulciano. Maya, of course, couldn't partake in the wine tasting, but she was happy to sample some of the local *cantucci* biscuits, dipping them in *vin santo*. The wine was exquisite, each sip revealing layers of flavor and complexity. As we savored our drinks, we chatted with the owner, who shared stories about the region's winemaking traditions. It was a perfect way to end our day, immersing ourselves in the local culture and savoring the flavors of Tuscany.


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 Osteria del Borgo, drawn in by its historic setting and promise of traditional Tuscan cuisine. The *osteria* is located in a historic building dating back to 1300, right in the central square of Montepulciano. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with rustic décor and a lively ambiance. We started with *tagliere toscano*, a platter of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by *pappardelle al cinghiale* for Liam and me, and *ribollita* for Maya. The food was hearty and delicious, each dish showcasing the flavors of the Tuscan countryside. As we ate, we listened to the lively chatter of the other diners, feeling a sense of camaraderie and connection. Osteria del Borgo wasn't just a restaurant; it was a gathering place, a place where locals and visitors alike came together to share good food and good company.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Osteria del Borgo in Montepulciano - a culinary journey through Italy's finest flavors.

As I reflect on today, I'm struck by how much Montepulciano has to offer. From its artistic treasures to its whimsical towers, its breathtaking landscapes to its culinary delights, this town has something for everyone. And as we prepare for tomorrow's adventures – a visit to Cipressi di Monticchiello, Giardini di Poggiofanti, and Sentiero Toscano – I know that Montepulciano will continue to surprise and delight us, revealing more of its hidden gems with each passing day. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Bottega del Rame tomorrow, hoping to find a unique souvenir to remind us of our time in this beautiful town. I'm also excited to try the Fattoria San Martino for breakfast, La Bottega del Nobile for lunch, and Porta di Bacco for dinner. I have a feeling that tomorrow will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I'm so grateful to be sharing this adventure with Liam and Maya, creating lasting memories and bonding over shared experiences. It's moments like these that make all the challenges of travel worthwhile, reminding us of the importance of family, connection, and exploration.