カヴリーリアの洞窟・トップ14

Very high-end winery but well worth a visit. Stunning architecture at their modern tasting room, beautiful old buildings comprising the restaurant and cafe, also an 'art trail' tour you can book, worth it for the Anish Kapoor alone...

Nestled among vineyards and hills, the fortified village of Ama dates back to the Middle Ages and was an important outpost defending the Republic of Florence during the wars with Siena. Traces of the original castle remain in the ancient stone houses and structures incorporated into the current village, which retains the authentic charm of the small medieval settlements of Chianti. Today, Ama is famous for its wines and for the "Castello di Ama per l'Arte Contemporanea" project, launched in the 1990s: an itinerary that integrates site-specific installations by major international artists (including Anish Kapoor, Daniel Buren, Hiroshi Sugimoto, and Michelangelo Pistoletto) in the historic buildings, cellars, and open spaces of the village. A stop that combines history, landscape, contemporary art, and winemaking tradition, making Ama a unique place in the heart of Chianti.

Located just south of Gaiole, Meleto Castle is one of the most fascinating castles in Chianti. Documented since the 11th century as a property of the Abbey of Coltibuono, it later passed under the control of the Ricasoli family, who made it one of the main fortresses defending the area. The imposing structure still retains its medieval appearance with its massive square tower, crenellated walls, and two elegant cylindrical bastions added in the 15th century. Inside, there is an elegant courtyard, frescoed rooms, a chapel, and even a small 18th-century theater. Today, the castle is open to visitors and hosts events, tastings, and wine-related activities, offering splendid views of the Chianti countryside.

The village of Vertine is a tiny fortified town in the Chianti Valley. Walking through its narrow streets is like taking a journey into the glorious past of this area: the stone walls, entrance arches, and towers are a living testament to this.

This imposing medieval castle now houses a luxury residence and is home to a winery specializing in the production of Chianti Classico wine.

Vertine is one of the most charming fortified villages in Chianti, perfectly preserved and rich in history. The castle, dating back to the early 12th century and linked to the Ricasoli family, constitutes the original nucleus of the village, with stone walls and houses clustered within. The entrance is dominated by an imposing 13th-century square tower, built to strengthen defenses during the conflicts between Florence and Siena. Inside the village is the Romanesque church of San Bartolomeo, also from the 12th century, simple and intimate, with original features clearly visible. Strolling through the narrow cobbled streets, you can still breathe in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, while the views of the Chianti hills make Vertine an ideal stop for those who love history, architecture, and nature.

Small and quite old village in the heart of Chianti

a short photo stop is very worthwhile