Sorano

Sorano is one most fascinating and celebrated villages in the Maremma; it is located in the heart of the territory, in the Area del Tufo (Tuff Area), which is found in the province of Grosseto.

The town rises on a tufaceous hill, from which it can boast a beautiful panorama offered by the countryside and the Tuscan hills. Immersed amongst absolutely splendid and stunning natural scenery, the town deserves to be appreciated in all its uniqueness and beauty.

Sorano is an absolutely fascinating and charming location, which is sure to capture the attention of every visitor; offering an extraordinary union between its natural beauty, stunning architectonics and the artistic splendor of its historic centre.

The town immerses you entirely into the spirit of the ancient history, where you can discover the story of the past and truly appreciate the ancient culture and traditions of the zone.

The palazzi, the churches and the ancient monuments are all splendid, fascinating and charming, and of great interest to all lovers of beautiful art and architectonics.

Not to miss:

Collegiata di San Niccolo (The Collegiate of St. Niccolo): a typically Romanesque structure, it was built during the Middle Ages and modified between the 16th and 18th centuries; which today, gives the structure an interesting varied appearance. The inside is divided into two aisles and houses works of art of great beauty.

Fortezza Orsini (Orsini Fortress): one of most cherished and precious structures in the town. Its construction dates back to the Middle Ages, originally built for the Aldobrandeschi family, it was then enlarged and reconstructed under the dominion of the Orsini Counts. On the front door of the fortress you can find the coat of arms of the two families, whilst inside the wonderful castle is decorated with precious frescoes dating back to the 17th century.

Palazzo Comitale: dating back to the Renaissance period, it is a splendid building with a lovingly maintained portal. The structure was originally the residence of the Orsini family before they moved into the fortress.

Church of the Madonna del Borgo: was built in the Middle Ages but is today partially submersed into the newer surrounding buildings.

Antichi Granai (Ancient Granaries): used in the collection and distribution of grain, this structure hosts many interesting events and cultural representations throughout the year.

The splendid Orsini Park: an extraordinary garden filled with extravagant and unique statues and small monuments. It was built by the Orsini Counts, who also requested another garden to be built in the nearby Pitigliano. The area is rich mythological figurines, displays, cavalry figures; as well as local and exotic plant species.

Masso Leopoldino (Leopoldino Rock): another structure which symbolizes the medieval village of Sorano and was built by the Grand Duchy Leopold di Lorena as a typical military fortification in the 1700.

Torre dell’Orologio (The Clock Tower): complete with a bell.

Porta dei Merli (Door of Merli) right next to the fortress, and the Porta di Sopra (The Top Door).

History:

We definitely know that the territory where today’s Tuscan city is, was already inhabited in an ancient age. An original settlement was present during the time of the Etruscans, and successively became an important centre for the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages the village was an important possession of the Aldobrandeschi family and the Orsinis.

At the beginning of the 15th century the town fell under the politics of the Republic of Siena, before returning once more to the Orsini family.

After a short time under the control of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, the town was annexed by the Italian Kingdom in the second half of the 19th century.