Tuscany: discovering Pitigliano, the little Jerusalem
Written on : 05 April 2022 By : Emilie Dubillot
The Tuscany region, the cradle of the Renaissance, is full of beautiful little villages. Located in the extreme south of Tuscany, the town of Pitigliano is atypical. It is visible from afar with its amazing houses built into the cliff face in tufa stone, it is perched more than 300 metres above the plain.
Pitigliano, also known as "Little Jerusalem", will charm you with its history: in 1555, the Jewish community fled Rome and its Catholic authority, seeking refuge in Tuscany. Many came to Pitigliano when welcomed by the locals, who did not support the Pope. One of the first buildings they built after settling in the community was the synagogue, which dates from 1598. The beginning of peaceful coexistence between the Christian majority and the Jewish minority until the 19th century.
This city is a delight: small but big enough to spend a few hours discovering the picturesque alleys, shops, and numerous restaurants that will satisfy you. So take a stroll through the many flowery alleys and don't miss the many points of interest: the synagogue, the Jewish museum, the kosher wine cellar, and the slaughterhouse, and learn more about the life of the ghetto inhabitants who lived there since the 16th century.
1. Visit to the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul
Located in Piazza San Gregorio, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul or Duomo di Pitigliano was built in the medieval period, remodelled in the 16th century, and frequently modified afterwards. The façade of this building, dating from the 18th century, comprises four columns framing the statues of St. Peter and St. Paul.
2. Travel back in time with the Palazzo Orsini Museum
This 21-room museum, located in a wing of the Palazzo Orsini, is a clever mix of art objects, period furniture, and even torture tools: a fascinating walk through history. This fortified palace is very well restored, with frescoed ceilings and walls. Admission is €5 for adults and €3 for children under 10. https://www.museidimaremma.it/en/museo.asp?keymuseo=25
3. Learn about Jewish traditions in the synagogue
Located at the foot of the Orsini Castle, the synagogue of Pitigliano was built in 1598, commissioned by the weaver Leone di Sabato. It was first restored in 1757 after the roof collapsed, and again in 1960, it opened to the public in 1995. You will have the opportunity to learn more about Jewish culture and its importance in Pitigliano throughout the ages.
4. Have lunch or dinner in the unique Corte del Ceccottino
Here, you can enjoy delicious Tuscan specialities accompanied by Bianco di Pitigliano's local wine. The setting is beautiful, with a lovely courtyard and a cellar carved into the stone. However, as the restaurant has limited seating, we advise you to book in advance.
https://ceccottino.com/.
Don't leave without tasting the famous "sfratto", a Jewish biscuit with honey and almonds, in the bakery next to the synagogue. The legend says the cakes were created from the sticks used by the soldiers during the curfew in Pitigliano. The soldiers used to knock on the villagers' doors at nightfall to remind them to stay indoors.
And if you still have time, don't hesitate to visit the neighbouring villages of Sovana and Sorano, also built in tufa stone, or to dive into the thermal waters of Saturnia, unique hot springs less than 30 minutes drive from Pitigliano.
We offer to organize your stay through unique experiences to make your holiday in Tuscany unforgettable. In addition, our staff offer advice on local activities and are always available to help you plan your ideal stay.
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