Ramparts

Central Tuscany


Built by the Republic of Siena in the 13th century as a defensive outpost against Florence, Monteriggioni's castle resisted a number of sieges and attacks but fell into disrepair after Siena fell to its rival in the 16th century. Reconstructed in the 19th century, the ramparts can now be accessed from two locations within the town and offer wonderful views over the countryside.

The ticket also includes entry to the four-room armour museum in the tourist office building.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Central Tuscany attractions

1. Abbadia a Isola

1.47 MILES

The name (isola means island) reflects the fact that until the 18th century, this 11th-century abbey was surrounded by swampland. It has hosted many…

2. Museo Archeologico del Chianti Senese

6.29 MILES

Etruscan archaeological finds from the local area are on display at this museum in the town's medieval rocca (fortress). Room 4 showcases artefacts found…

3. Montecalvario

6.44 MILES

These four Etruscan burial chambers, dating from the 6th century BC, are located off the main road at the northern edge of town. Devotees of Etruscan…

4. Porta Camollia

6.68 MILES

This 16th-century gate replaced its medieval predecessor, which was the major northern entrance through Siena's medieval city walls. The structure has…

5. Museo dell'Acqua

6.72 MILES

Siena is unusual in that unlike many Tuscan cities, it isn't located next to a watercourse. To compensate, it has a unique historical network of…

6. Chiesa di San Pietro alla Magione

6.75 MILES

Serenely beautiful, this Romanesque church was built in the 10th century and used by the Knights Templar in the 12th century. It then passed to the…

8. Fortezza Medicea

6.84 MILES

Built by order of Cosimo de' Medici in 1563, this fortified brick castle was decommissioned as a military barracks in the late 18th century and converted…