The Surroundings
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The nearest towns are Sovana, Sorano and Pitigliano. Sorano is located on a wide plateau of tuffa rock. It is surrounded by three deep gorges with streams. Many of the romantic streets of Sorano offer beautiful views of streams, woods and massive rocks. The Castello Orsini, which was completely rebuilt in the 16th century, overlooks the town. This impressive fortification structure is the largest such structure that was built during the Middle Ages in the Maremma Region. The surrounding "vie cave" lead to nearby archeological sites, for example to San Rocco, which offers a beautiful view of Sorano. Sovana is considered the jewel of the region. The historic centre with its dome and cathedral, built by the Aldobrandeschi family during 800-1000, is special. The recent discovery of many Etruscan sites in the unique countryside has helped Sovana to return to life from oblivion and spur the town's restoration. Pitigliano was inhabited already during various periods of the Bronze Age (2000-1000 B.C.). The tuffa rock is visible everywhere, from the base of the mountain ridge to its top, where the houses, the tower, the churches and every building are made of the red and yellow stone. Walking through the historic centre you will see narrow streets and small "piazze" which were laid out in the Middle Ages for horse and cart traffic and make this town particularly attractive. Of special interest are the Castello Orsini with its museum, the old part of town with the ghetto, the dome, and the church of S. Rocco. Lots of other places of interest and sites worth exploring are also located near to Pitigliano. Also worth visiting are Orvieto, Tuscania, Tarquinia and Cerveteri with their Etruscan sites, the harbour towns Porto Ercole and Porto Santo Stefano at the Monte Argentario (70 km). Somewhat more distant are Pienza, Perugia, Assisi, Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, the island of Elba ... You will find guide books, maps and more tips for excursions and sightseeeing in the small house library. |
 
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