Discovering Sorano

I haven’t finished yet to tell you more about #toomuchmaremma, my incredible trip to Maremma. After visiting Pitigliano and Sovana, there was the time to visit Sorano.

A bit about Sorano

It was probably a Villanovan town but it was first mentioned during the 3rd century BC, when was an Etruscan city under the influence of Sovana. During the Roman
domination it almost disappeared to come back in 862 when it was founded by Emperor Louis II under the control of Aldobrandeschi family.

When the last Aldobrandeschi died the city became part of the Orsini family fiefs. Then is passed under the control of Siena in 1417 until 1556, when it was annexed to the Duchy of Tuscany and then in 1604 became part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.

What to see

I actually loved Sorano and its narrow streets. It is really well kept by its citizens, as well as well preserved by the time passing by. Each corner is a perfect picture and you can admire great landscapes from several panoramic points.

The center is dominated by the large Orsini Fortress built in the 14th century and totally renovated by Niccolò IV Orsini in 1552. It’s consider one of the most beautiful examples of Renaissance military architectures. Inside the fortress you can visit the Museum of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, as well as taking a guided tour of the patrol paths and the secrets. I loved the small square of the fortress with its peculiar decoration in black and white.

Then from the fortress you can see part of the ancient defensive walls and reach the city center. Visit the Collegiata of San Niccolò, founded in 1276 and renovated during 18th century. From there follow the signs to reach the incredible Masso Leonino.

Masso Leonino is a natural tuff stone carved to form a fortified, panoramic terrace by order of Gran Duke Leopold. On top it has a sighting tower with a big clock, that is the city symbol. I strongly recommend you climb up to the terrace and enjoy the great view of the city and surroundings.

I also recommend you get lost into the center and wander around, because it’s really stunning. I took over 200 hundred photos, because every single spot is incredibly beautiful! I got lost, went up and down for thousands of steps, but it was really worthed.

Within the city center there are also a few shops and restaurants where you can go for shopping!

Details

In Sorano Municipality you can buy the combined ticket for 10 euro including entrances to the Orsini Fortress and guided tour, the necropolis and Museum of San Marsiliano in Sovana. I did it and saved money.