Capalbio

1. Historic center (15 km from us)

A chase of alleys, stairs and squares, passages which open onto the countryside, prestigious buildings, arches and historic doors. This, and much more in truth, is the medieval village of Capalbio. Let's take a walk:

The Hall of the Collacchioni Palace in Capalbio

The first stop is the splendid one Porta Senese, then we pass to the Aldobrandesca tower from which you enjoy a truly suggestive panorama, the Collacchioni Palace which houses the Conrad Graf fortepiano played by Puccini, the Oratory of Providence which houses the Madonna della Provvidenza attributed to Perugino and al Pinturicchio.

Continuing along via Vittorio Emanuele II we arrive at the historic ones crenellated walls, going up again we will come across the Holy Arch.

2. Rocca Aldobrandesca (16 km from us)

We talked about it a little above but this Rocca deserves a paragraph of its own. Located in the historic center as well as in the highest point of Capalbio, the Rocca Aldobrandesca of medieval origins is one fortification in the shape of an "L", with the keep attached to the Collacchioni Palace. Inside does not give much satisfaction apart from the piano played by Giacomo Puccini. Climb up to the Terrace not to miss one of the most beautiful views of Capalbio.

3. Piave or church of San Nicola (16 km from us)

Don't miss this little gem which arises in the main square of Capalbio and on whose side the bell tower rises. The church, built in Romanesque style, guards remarkable fifteenth-century frescoes from the Umbrian and Sienese schools. Waste 5 minutes, you will not regret it.

4. The villa of the columns and the Castle of Capalbiaccio (16 km from us)

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In both cases we are dealing with ruins but what are they easily accessible from Capalbio.

Traveling the road Foothills, in the direction of the hamlet Giardino, you will find the enclosure of an ancient Roman villa: the Villa of the Columns. It dates back to the period on horseback between the 1st century BC and the 2nd century AD it was a rural villa inhabited only during the holiday period by the owner on duty but what he regularly produced wine. To today you can visit a portion of the wall enclosure and some turrets.

Today, above a part of the ancient villa, there is one private house not open to visitors. However as this site is located just down the road, it is worth stopping for a few minutes to admire these ancient remains.

The same goes for the Capalbiaccio Castle: originally also called Castle of Tricosto today, of past grandeur, they remain alone little understandable ruins also due to a strong earthquake which also destroyed its remains. The Castle was first owned by the Aldobrandeschi, later by Orsini and finally conquered by Sienese who provided for its destruction.

4. WWF Lake Burano Oasis (11 km from us)

It is a splendid reserve recognized as Area of International Importance. There reserve of the lake of Burano was established in 1980 and managed by WWF occupies an area of 410 hectares (of which 140 from the lake).
Represents an important wintering point for many animal species and presents a unique flora in the world. This lake of Burano is one of the most famous WWF oasis and well maintained: you will find equipped paths, observation huts where you can spot rare marsh birds, but also fresh and salt water fish, and a visitor center.

The Oasis is open from September to May 1st, on Sundays at 10.00 and 14.30 (daylight saving time 15.00). Groups and school groups every day, by reservation. Visits summer, in July and August, Monday, Wednesday and Saturday by reservation only, at 5.30 pm.

For more information: WWF OASIS LAKE BURANO