Montepulciano Things to Do Tips by sandysmith

Piazza Grande

Montepulciano's main square is well named, it certainly is grand and on such a theatrical scale. It is built on the highest point of the ridge, a fine setting for the Duomo. However it is the 13th century gothic PALAZZO COMUNALE which is most striking. Michelozzo's tower, an imitation of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. This can be climbed for the best view of the square and surrounding tuscan counrtyside. Its free but take note it is closed on Sundays.

We enjoyed a rest in the square here, having climbed up the hill, with a coffee and drinking in all the amazing architecture around us.

High Point View

The fortress was difficult to photo and I don't think you could enter, its partly occupied by houses now. Anyway best of all is the view from here....drink this is, beautiful tuscan countryside.

Montepulciano View

Before you enter the gate you wil need to catch your breath to climb up to the Piazza Grande and fortress - so pause for a while and admire the churches of Santa Lucia and San Francesco from this angle. They can be passed on the way down.

Palazzo Nobili-Tarugi

This palazzo is just by the fountain and is quite novel in that a public loggia has been cut through at on corner. Originally it had an extension on the third floor, but this has now been bricked in.

Nezxt to it in this pic is the Palazzo Cantucci where you can sample some of the famous Vino Nobile - Montepulciano's wine trademark.

Lion and Griffin Fountain

This beautiful rustic fountain is situated in the Piazza Grande.

Tower House

This tower house is a rare feature in Montepulciano. On the top is a figure of a clown, the PULCINELLA, which striles the hours on the town clock. It is purported to have been errected by an exiled bishop from Naples - hence a rarity in Tuscany.