Monterriggioni is a medieval walled town, located on a natural hillock in Siena, Tuscany, Italy. The town walls are still intact, cover 570 metres and consist of 14 towers and 2 gates. The circular layout of the wall was laid by simply following the sketch of the ground level. The military area and the inhabited area are well separated by an ‘Area of Respect’. From the hilltop, one can view the fortified town, the countryside’s of Chianti and Valdelsa.

Walled Town On A Natural Hillock – Monterriggioni
 
Monterriggioni is a defence structure, a fortress built by Siena against the Florentines. Even as late as 1960’s, Monterriggioni was a sleepy village of farmers and shepherds. Today, the town is bustling with fine wine shops, a tasting room, hotels and restaurants mainly due to tourists and pilgrims. Monterriggioni is a major stop for pilgrims who are on the trail from Cantebury to Rome. The Romanesque church of Santa Maria Assunta will offer assistance and housing to the pilgrims. It is all about sitting in the shades of the Piazza, sipping wine and simply relaxing. One can really unwind here in Monterriggioni. 

General Etiquette

If you want to use the restroom of a café, it is important to order a café at least and then ask politely. Otherwise, you will be directed to the nearby public toilet complex. Don’t talk loudly or swear loudly. Drinking alcohol from a bottle in the streets is impolite behaviour. Carry a phrase book to converse with the locals. Wait for the shopkeeper to attend you. Remember to tip waiters and porters always. The prices at restaurants in Monterriggioni depend on the seating mode you choose. The rates are different for take-aways, at the bar stool and at the table attended by a waiter. If visiting in winter, be careful around the steep slopes and the cobblestone floors.