"Greve in Chianti - the Chianti hills" Top 5 Page for this destination Greve by ammonet

The small market town of Greve in Chianti is centred on Piazza Matteotti, a triangular-shaped piazza sometimes likened to a ship because of the number of famous navigators born in the region. A statue of Verazzano, discoverer of New York harbour, stands in the piazza, and Amerigo Vespucci after whom America is named was born in the nearby village of Montefioralle. A wasp, "vespa", the symbol of the family, marks the house. The town web site at www.greve-in-chianti.com provides much useful information on what to see and where to stay.

A fairly stiff 20 min uphill walk brings you to the Castello of Montefioralle, actually the remnants of a fortified village, still inhabited and well worth a visit. The higest point is occupied by the church and this is surrounded by a circular street lined on both sides by small houses dating back to the 12 C. There is a single and good restaurant and a small piazza where one may sit and enjoy the view.

• Pros:Good place to stock up on provisions.
• Cons:It's the place you leave to visit the real Chianti!
• In a nutshell:Greve itself is of average interest, but it is the travel centre for a beautiful region.