Sinalunga

The medieval heart of Sinalunga bears witness to a long and fascinating history. The historic center is characterized by an ancient core and the iconic Piazza Garibaldi, the flagship of the Tuscan town. Here is the 1588 Collegiate Church of San Martino, which houses the precious painting "The Madonna and Child, St. Sigismondo, Rocco, Giovannino, Anthony Abbot and Sebastian" by Giovanni Antonio Bazzi, known as Sodoma. Emblematic of the Counter-Reformation style, the church features a single nave and blind altars in contrast to the artistic richness it houses. In the same square, the later Church of the Madonna delle Nevi and the Church of Santa Croce, which preserves "The Marriage of the Virgin," belonging to the school of Renaissance artist Luca Signorelli, stand out.

The Palazzo Pretorio has dominated the urban ensemble since 1337, preserving the coats of arms of the Podestà on its façade and bearing witness to the historical transitions from the period of the Republic of Siena to the Medici. Another must-see are The Rooms of Larth, a museum space displaying artifacts from the Etruscan culture of Sinalunga and its surroundings. Infine, the Fonte del Castagno, a system of tunnels built in 1265 to ensure water supply, welcomes visitors at the entrance to the town, and not far away stands the Church of San Bernardino, dating back to 1449, with the adjoining convent that serves as the guardian of the Madonna del Rifugio, patron saint of the Valdichiana.

Traditions and events in Sinalunga

Sinalunga, thanks to its location in the cultural and eno-gastronomic heart of the Valdichiana, is also known for its events. Prominent events include Sinalunga Bike in April, which attracts MountainBike enthusiasts in a fusion of sport and scenic beauty. In May, The Valley of the White Giant celebrates the Chianina cattle breed, offering visits to farms and food and wine tastings. The L'Incantaborgo Street Arts Festival in July engages internationally renowned artists in a setting that promotes cultural heritage. In August, the Birranthology Extravaganza Festival explores musical and visual subcultures, emphasizing craft beers. October's Alla Pieve Fair in Sinalunga is an institution that blends tradition, country culture and family fun. These annual events aim to enhance the cultural and traditional richness of the town of Sinalunga.

Historic walks and bike routes

The territory of Sinalunga is dotted with medieval villages and rural landscapes that make it a perfect place for those seeking authentic experiences to be lived in harmony with the destination, its places, people and nature. Prominent among the historic paths is the Via Lauretana, an ancient pilgrimage route that leads to the Sanctuary of Loreto; walking along it one can admire the village of Scrofiano and then reach the historic center of Sinalunga and the Tenuta La Fratta, a historic farm where the prized Chianina breed of cattle is still raised. Cycling enthusiasts can explore the area through three dedicated itineraries: the White Giant Route, a loop route for a slow discovery of the entire Valdichiana; the Garibaldi Gravel, which passes through the village of Rigomagno; and the Biancalana Tour, a 44-kilometer route to discover Sinalunga and its medieval villages.

Characters and legends of the village

The historic center of Sinalunga hides fascinating stories of real-life characters, such as Ser Pietro Biancalana, an innkeeper with a tavern near Piazza Padella. He is famous for his role in the 16th-century Sienese War, when he allowed Sienese soldiers to enter the castle of Sinalunga and free it from the Spanish siege on the night of March 10, 1553. Florentine revenge was not long in coming, with the destruction of the stronghold's ramparts. Curiously, there is a walled window in Piazza Biancalana called "La Finestra della Spiona," around which is woven the legend of an elderly spy who watched passersby from the back of the Pinsuti Theater. A mural on Via Cavour also commemorates the arrest of Giuseppe Garibaldi in Sinalunga on September 23, 1867, a significant historical event. From the village also originated the notorious bandit Ghino di Tacco, born at Fratta and a descendant of the powerful local families. After being condemned in Siena for his misdeeds, he found refuge in Radicofani, becoming a scourge to pilgrims in transit. He managed to obtain a pardon from the pope after curing the abbot of Cluny. Returning to Sinalunga, his life ended tragically during a brawl.

A hamlet to explore

The village of Sinalunga is an ideal destination for those who want an authentic tourist experience enriched by history, culture, art and breathtaking scenery. Every alley and square in the Tuscan village holds secrets and stories to be discovered, making it a jewel in the landscape of tourism in Tuscany.

Go and discover Sinalunga, where every stone speaks of history and every event celebrates the joy of a past still alive in the soul of its people. Sinalunga is waiting to give you indelible emotions and let you savor the true essence of Tuscany.