Tuff Towns

Discover Pitigliano, the town of tufa

In the heart of the Fiora Hills, the Valley of Tufa conceals enchanting villages perched on tuff cliffs.

Pitigliano, Sorano, and Sovana are cliffside settlements characterized by medieval fortifications and houses seemingly emerging from the rock.

Pitigliano, also known as “Little Jerusalem” due to its historic Jewish community, is renowned for the Vie Cave, an archaeological path to explore on foot amid rocks and woods. Noteworthy sights include Palazzo Orsini and the fortress, the Cathedral, and the sixteenth-century aqueduct: a true hallmark of the town.

Sorano, once dominated by the noble Aldobrandeschi family, was transformed into a defensive stronghold. Of historical interest and worth a visit are the Orsini fortress and the Archaeological Park, where the Ildebranda Tomb can be admired.

Near the Etruscan tombs lies the small village of Sovana, the birthplace of Pope Gregory VII. On the main square stand historical buildings such as the small Church of Santa Maria, the Pretorio Palace, and the Museum of San Mamiliano. At the end of the street is the Cathedral of San Pietro, featuring a crypt that houses the remains of San Mamiliano.