Manciano

Located on a hill overlooking the amazing scenery of the Maremma Tuscany, Manciano was, in ancient times, given the nickname “Spia della Maremma” (Spy of the Maremma), thanks to the view which can been seen from the town.

With a panorama that begins at the splendid Tyrrhenian coast and travels along the cultivated countryside to the impressive peak of Mount Amiata, visitors can see almost all of the Maremma from Manciano.

The town itself is home to splendid structures and ancient buildings, which are absolutely stunning and unique. The history and the ancient culture of the wonderful town of Manciano always manage to fascinate visitors and capture their interest.

The town is situated in the province of Grosseto and is seen as one of the most fascinating and magical cities of the entire Maremma; managing to incorporate the full spirit and traditions of the land.

With its flavours, its costumes and its way of life, Manciano displays the traditions of the peasant world and the fascinating and mysterious life of the butteri (Italian cowboys) throughout the town.

From the street of the village you can appreciate the beauty and the uniqueness of the monuments, palazzi and ancient structures, which are definitely extraordinary and splendid.

Not to miss:

Church of St. Leonardo: the principal sacred building of the Tuscan town, it is a structure with medieval origins, rebuilt and renovated in subsequent centuries. The façade is presented to visitors in all its splendor, with enchanting statues of saints. Inside there are some stunning religious frescoes, done by two important, famous and appreciated local artists: Pietro Aldi and Paride Pascucci.

Church of the Santissima Annuziata: built outside the impressive city walls during the Middle Ages, this is a very simple building, but incredibly unique and interesting. It displays some elements added during 19th century reconstructions and is home to some beautiful frescoes.

Rocca Aldobrandesca (Aldobrandesca Fortress): possibly the oldest building in the town it is a symbol of Manciano and was built during the domination of the powerful Aldobrandeschi family. It was then reconstructed and renovated under the politics of the Republic of Siena, who added a bastion and a fascinating clock tower just metres from the structure.

The ancient surrounding walls: partially consumed by newer buildings, you can still see some bastions and watch towers. Today they have become a private property, but the first and most famous door used in ancient time to gain access to the fortified city: Porta Fiorella, still stands near the Palazzo Communale.

The Museum of Prehistory and Protohistory of the Valle del Fiora (Hills of the Fiora): inside you can find fascinating exhibitions on objects and ruins from the Etruscans and Romans. It also houses reconstructions and interesting explanatory panels which explain the evolution of the Manciano area and the various historic ages; beginning from the prehistoric era. The ruins on display come from the nearby necropolises of Poggio Buco, Corano and Poggio Formica.

History:

The history of Manciano is, like much of the Maremma, interesting and unique. We know that the surrounding area was already inhabited in Etruscan times, as indicated by the numerous ruins found nearby.

The settlement then became an important centre during the domination of the Roman Empire, transforming into an important political and economic city.

The Middle Ages brought the presence of the powerful Aldobrandeschi, followed by the city of Orvieto and the Orsini Counts; before being annexed by the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.