Pienza is a city of infinite beauty, a village overlooking the rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia, rich in history and charm.
So beautiful that its historic center has been declared a World Heritage Site by humanity, inside the Val d’Orcia Park which in turn is a World Heritage Site.
But most of all, it is famous for its cheese, Pecorino di Pienza.
A walk in Pienza can start from “Porta al Murello” then on Corso Rossellino, the main street that crosses the city from north to south up to “Porta del Ciglio”.
As soon as you cross the door you will find yourself immersed in a magical atmosphere, you will be captivated by the scents and colors, by the picturesque alleys that open on the sides of the course. Strolling through artisan shops and shops selling typical products, they arrive in Piazza Pio II, the real jewel of the city.
The panoramic Via del Casello is suggestive and romantic, it is the “belvedere” of Pienza from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the whole Val d’Orcia up to Monte Amiata.
As we already mentioned above, Pienza is famous for its excellent Pecorino. One of the most famous and best cheeses of Tuscany and at the same time with the longest history.
Pecorino di Pienza is a cheese made from more or less aged, spiced or refined sheep’s milk, to be eaten alone or accompanied with honey, jams or pears.
In Pienza the scent of Pecorino fills the air, along the streets of the city you will find shops where you can buy or taste Pecorino. For an authentic experience you can also visit a dairy where Pecorino di Pienza is produced.
In September, the famous and fun Fiera del Cacio is held, a great festival dedicated to pecorino and other products of the local tradition. During the event there is also a folkloristic game of ancient times: the Palio del Cacio al spindle, where players from every district of origins must roll forms of pecorino around a small wooden spindle placed in the center of the pia principal.
Other typical products are: saffron, the prized truffle, Cinta Senese cured meats and pici: handmade spaghetti served with a garlic sauce or a goose sauce. All obviously accompanied by a glass of local wine: Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino and Orcia Doc.
