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PIEVE
A CASTELLO - Monteriggioni (Si)
Findings indicate that the site of Pieve a Castello has been
inhabited for over 2,500 years. Current buildings, on earlier foundations,
include the proto-Romanesque basilica-style church and a very rare 8th Century
octagonal structure with Lombard arcading. From 700-1400 AD, the buildings
housed a canonry, that had extensive lands and 22 churches, and was an important
overnight stopping place on the 'main road of Europe', visited by millions of
people travelling to and from Rome, including recorded visits by popes and
emperors. A network of ancient walking routes fan out in all directions
from Pieve a Castello, once an important focal point. Here, two ancient routes
joined: the Via Salaria, the 'salt route', from the sea and great Etruscan city
of Volterra (20 miles away); and the 'main road of Europe' to Rome. These
ancient ways still exist, as tracks and paths through forests and open country,
providing over 100 miles of excellent walking (see map below). A booklet with
clear directions and maps of these walks is available free to all residents.
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