Pulcinella tower, Montepulciano Travel Guide

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A whimsical clock tower in Montepulciano featuring Pulcinella, a Neapolitan character, striking the hour in a historic Tuscan setting.

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Pulcinella tower

The Pulcinella Tower, located in Piazza Michelozzo, Montepulciano, is a captivating clock tower adorned with a statue of Pulcinella, a traditional Neapolitan character. This unique landmark adds a touch of whimsy to the historic Tuscan town, offering visitors a delightful surprise.

A brief summary to Pulcinella tower

Piazza Michelozzo, Montepulciano, Province of Siena, 53045, IT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pulcinella tower.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
Take your time exploring the area around the tower, where you'll find charming streets, traditional Tuscan buildings, and local eateries.
Combine your visit with a wine tasting tour, as Montepulciano is famous for its Vino Nobile.

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Explore Pulcinella tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pulcinella tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Piazza Grande, walk down Via di Gracciano towards Piazza delle Erbe. Piazza Michelozzo, where the Pulcinella Tower is located, will be on your left, about halfway down the street. There are no costs associated with walking to the tower.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus at the Autostazione (Piazzale P. Nenni), take the urban mini-bus service that loops around the town. Get off at the stop closest to Piazza Grande and follow the walking directions. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1-€2. Alternatively, from the bus station, you can take the elevator to the Giardini di Poggiofanti and walk up to the tower. A ticket for the elevator costs about €1-€2.
Taxi

From the Montepulciano Stazione train station (located 8km from the city center), a taxi to Piazza Michelozzo will cost approximately €20-€30. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Pulcinella tower

The Pulcinella Tower, or Torre di Pulcinella, stands proudly in Piazza Michelozzo, a charming square in the heart of Montepulciano. This medieval tower is part of the Church of Sant'Agostino. What makes this tower truly special is the figure of Pulcinella perched atop, striking a bell to mark the hours.Pulcinella is a well-known character from the 17th-century Italian commedia dell'arte, originating in Naples. This clownish figure, typically dressed in white with a black mask, is an unexpected sight in the Tuscan landscape. Legend has it that a bishop or priest from Naples brought the clock and Pulcinella figure to Montepulciano in the 17th century, as a tribute to their homeland. However, some believe the figure is a misidentified "Mangia" from Siena.The tower itself predates the church to which it is connected. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone several restorations, including one in 2015 that also involved the Pulcinella figure. The clock, originally wound by hand, is now electric.Located halfway along Via di Gracciano, the tower is a prominent landmark and a popular spot for photographs. The tower and its square offer a picturesque view and a glimpse into the unique blend of cultures and histories that converge in Montepulciano.