Why Visit Pienza? The Must-See Town in Tuscany, Italy 🇮🇹

Pienza, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, is a splendid example of Renaissance urban planning and architecture. It was transformed from a modest medieval village into the ideal Renaissance town by Pope Pius II in the 15th century. This transformation was part of his vision to create a utopian city that embodied the principles and aesthetics of the Renaissance. Today, Pienza is celebrated for its harmonious and well-proportioned layout, which has influenced urban development in Europe.

The town is also famous for its panoramic views over the Val d'Orcia and its exceptional pecorino cheese, which is made from sheep's milk and highly regarded by gourmands.

Visiting Pienza offers a unique blend of cultural history, architectural beauty, and gastronomic excellence. It's a serene escape that encapsulates the best of Tuscany in a single, manageable location. The town’s compact size and rich heritage make it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Renaissance art and urban theory while enjoying the natural and culinary delights of Tuscany.

[GuidoBatt]

The real reason why Pienza feels so special even by Tuscany standards is that's a "project city", built by Pope Pio II (Enea Silvio Piccolomini) in the XV Century, actually designed to be the ideal city. Nothing there before, nothing added later: it's not a stratification of layers, a movie if you will, rather it's a picture, capturing the essence of Renaissance. Then, the Brunello is really fine (maybe even a bit too complex for the mass consumption of today's market)