Yesterday, Len and I took a ride to the lovely town of Lucignano with friends. It was a nice spring day and I think we were the only visitors in town. In fact, it seemed as though we were the only people in town.
When we parked the car, I realized we had briefly visited here 5 years ago. This post includes some of the research from my original post, with some updates and some new photos.
Lucignano, a remarkably preserved medieval walled village, is laid out in elliptical rings.
This beautiful town sits 414 metres above sea level and offers its visitors a trip back in time.
Although Lucignano sits between Siena and Arezzo, it came under Florentine control in the 1500s, when a great deal of construction ensued. Today, one can still see the Puccini’s Fortress; Vasari’s 1568 sanctuary of Madonna della Querca; the Cappucini convent, c.1580; and several churches including Piazza S. Francesco with the church of S. Francesco in the background, and
Chiesa della Collegiata, c.1594.
In addition, the Museo Civico, left, offers many artistic treasures including the L’albero della vita, or tree of life, a gilded and jeweled tree holding a crucified figure.
On the village’s website, http://www.comune.lucignano.ar.it, Lucignano is described as “a pearl of the valdichiana, a small village that represents one of the more extraordinary examples of medieval urban planning for its system of elliptic rings…” Today, the village continues its agricultural and artisan traditions and produces products ranging from olive oil and honey to ceramics and gold jewelry. In addition, should you wish to purchase inlaid furniture or have a piece in need of repair, the skilled artists of Lucignano are ready to oblige.
Five years ago, we saw this written on the window of a wine shop, and I was happy to see it again.
Wine is the poetry of the earth…
And five years ago, we found this sign, but not the restaurant.
This time, we found the restaurant, and although it was closed, we found the nice people.
A wonderful way to spend the afternoon, strolling with friends through a beautiful ancient city, rich with history and culture…
making new friends,
and not even needing to close the door on our way out.
Ciao,
Judy
Lovely.
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Fascinating .. Very interesting .. Enjoyed your post …
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Thanks, Nella!
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How far is it from Cortona I think Julia And I have been there, I really don’t know ?
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About 30 Km, an easy afternoon drive, with time to eat and walk around. You probably have been there.
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This appears to be a fine example of the many Italian treasures that only someone like yourself can uncover and share with appreciative spectators like myself
Thank you
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Always happy to have your comments, thanks!
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What a neat experience. Looks like a town worth visiting. As usual, your pictures are amazing.
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Thanks and yes you should go; well worth a visit.
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great post – what a romantic place !
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A great description!
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Added to our list. So many beautiful places, never enough time. Thanks, Judy
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