MONTERIGGIONI

mONTERIGGIONI CASTELLA

This castella was built in approximately 1220 as a defensive outpost for Siena against their rivals Florence.  It housed not only the military but a large number of civilians.  During the 16th century it's military use declined when Siena was annexed by Florence.

It has a circular wall which only part of  is accessible but the view is spectacular obviously having given the Siennese an early indication of any iminent attacks.  No sneaking up on these  guys.                    

Although Florence eventually managed it considering they annexed the, until then, Replubic of Siena.

Of course it has it's own church as well as some little shops, a hotel, a gelateria and a tourist centre.                

 

By the time we left the clouds were beginning to overtake the patches of blue sky. Our day under the tuscan sun soon became rainy.  I was glad to have seen the view from the walls whilst the weather remained fine.

Ciao

Jo