Pienza: a jewel of Tuscany to visit. Here is how to rent a car from Florence to reach it.

Leaving the hectic pace of Florence behind, we take the highway south, ready to immerse ourselves in the quiet of Tuscany. Our destination? Pienza, a Renaissance jewel nestled in the picturesque Val d’Orcia that is definitely worth a visit.

The first step: rent a car in Florence:

The ideal starting point for this trip is Borgo Ognissanti. In fact, on this street you will be able to find many car rental agencies that will allow you to move around easily. Once on board your car, you can enjoy the Tuscan landscape as you head south.

Step two: learn a little about the history of Pienza and what it is famous for. Great for conversation while on the road.

Pienza, known as the “ideal city” of the Renaissance, was redesigned by Pope Pio II Piccolomini who was born there. At the time the name of the town was “Corsignano,” but it was later changed to “Pienza” in honor of the name chosen by the Pope, which is pronounced “Pius” in Latin.

Pius II wanted to transform his hometown into a model Renaissance city, entrusting the project to architect Bernardo Rossellino. Today, Pienza is a UNESCO site, just as Florence is, and an outstanding example of Renaissance town planning. It is a popular tourist destination because of its beauty, but still retains a relaxed atmosphere.

Throughout the year, Pienza hosts many cultural events, such as the Fiera del Pecorino (a special kind of sheep cheese), held every year in September.

When you are close to the town you will immediately notice the change of scenery. In fact, the town is nestled in the famous Val d’Orcia (the valley in which the Orcia river flows). Framed by its rolling hills, cypress trees silhouetted on the horizon and medieval villages, it is a unique landscape. A special note goes to the tree that characterizes Tuscany, especially in this area, namely the cypress. It is said that cypresses were planted near houses to protect them from lightnings and any kind of curse.

An iconic image of this valley is the “Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta,” a small Romanesque church nestled in a wheat field. Its isolated location and simple architecture make it a favorite photographic subject for visitors.The chapel has been used as a film set for many movies, further contributing to its worldwide fame.

Step 3: Once you arrive we suggest you to have lunch. You should discover the cuisine of the place which is amazing.

Pienza is a true paradise for food lovers. We couldn’t help but recommend a nice lunch as soon as you arrive!

Pienza’s cuisine, deeply rooted in its territory and rural tradition, offers a unique culinary experience. The undisputed king of the table is Pecorino di Pienza DOP, a cheese with an intense and slightly spicy flavor, made from sheep’s milk from the nearby Crete Senesi. In addition to pecorino, you can’t miss local cured meats, such as Cinta Senese, and pici, a fresh handmade pasta that will wow you.

Of course, you absolutely need a good wine. You won’t be disappointed since the wines of Val d’Orcia are characterized by a robust and enveloping taste, thanks to the mineral-rich soil and Mediterranean climate. Among the area’s most famous wines are: the Brunello di Montalcino, a good Orcia DOC or a Sant’Antimo.

What to visit in town:

Piazza Pio II: the heart of Pienza is definitely its square, which was designed to showcase the town’s most important sites. The pavement of the square is made of herringbone bricks, a decorative motif popular during the Renaissance. Even today, Piazza Pio II is the center of Pienza’s social life. Markets, festivals and events take place here.
Pienza Cathedral: located, of course, in Piazza Pio II, is another Renaissance masterpiece. Its facade, with its simple and pure lines, is a perfect example of humanistic architecture.
Palazzo Piccolomini: dominating the square, the Palazzo Piccolomini was the residence of the Pope and now houses a museum. Its facade is an example of Tuscan Renaissance architecture that in fact you will be very familiar with if you have seen Palazzo Rucellai in Florence. They almost look like twin palaces.

Also get lost in the city streets and enjoy the atmosphere of another time. We are sure you will not be disappointed!

What are you waiting for?
Come to Florence and then visit Pienza to discover its delights and Renaissance likenesses!

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