Montegiovi: Castle Ruins, Churches and Local Festivals

Castle Ruins and Churches in Montegiovi

Saint Catherine of Siena stayed in Montegiovi in 1377. The remains of Montegiovi’s old castle include a polygonal tower and an arched gateway. The Church of Sant'Elena dates from the 11th century and houses a painting depicting Saint Helena and the Finding of the True Cross. The Church of San Martino dates from the 13th century. The Oratory of Madonna degli Schiavi houses a fresco of the Madonna and Child, which some critics associate with the school of Simone Martini. The Church of Madonna degli Schiavi was built during the Renaissance as a rural chapel at the foot of an old fortified village and was remodeled in the 19th century. At Madonna degli Schiavi, the Renaissance structure and the 19th-century remodeling come together.

Historical Route Connection and Hiking Trail

The historical connection to Saint Catherine of Siena links Montegiovi to the ancient Vi’ Siena, which joined the Via Francigena. The official Itinerario 615 hiking trail passes through Seggiano, Montegiovi, Montelaterone, Santa Caterina and Roccalbegna. On a hike along the Itinerario 615, several changes of location are part of the route.

Mountains, Monasteries and Castles in the Surrounding Area

For excursions in the wider regional area around Montegiovi, there is Castello Banfi, a castle. Monte Cucco, a mountain, is located in the surroundings of Montegiovi. Monte Buceto, a mountain, is located in the surroundings of Montegiovi. Monte Aquilaia, a mountain, is located in the surroundings of Montegiovi. Monte Amiata, a mountain, is located in the surroundings of Montegiovi. The Abbazia di Sant'Antimo, a monastery, is located in the surroundings of Montegiovi. The Abbazia di San Salvatore, a monastery, is located in the surroundings of Montegiovi. In the wider regional area around Montegiovi lies the Fortezza di Montalcino, a castle.

Crafts, Sculptures and Festivals

Montegiovi is considered the home of basket weavers who hand-wove baskets and containers from willow branches. The Giardino di Piero Bonacina in Montegiovi displays the artist’s sculptures made of iron, concrete, wood, sandstone from Manciano and travertine from Saturnia. At the Giardino di Piero Bonacina, iron, concrete, wood, sandstone and travertine form the range of materials used in the sculptures on display. The Festa della Saracia celebrates Montegiovi’s local cherry with sweet treats, jams and a complete cherry-based menu. The Sagra della Bruschetta e dell'Olio Nuovo offers the first seasonal pressing of the new olive oil for tasting. During the September celebrations in honor of Madonna degli Schiavi, a religious procession takes place through Montegiovi on Sunday morning, accompanied by offerings from the local population and a marching band. In Montegiovi, the two festivals highlight two specific products of the regional cuisine: cherries and new olive oil.

For the higher-level travel overview: Castel Del Piano.