Castles around Chiusi are situated in the province of Siena, Italy, an area known for its rich history and diverse landscapes. While Chiusi itself integrates historical defensive structures into its urban fabric, the broader region offers several notable castles. The area is characterized by its position between the Val d'Orcia and Val di Chiana, featuring rolling hills and strategic historical locations. This region provides a blend of Etruscan heritage and medieval fortifications.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
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From this point on the road, you have a privileged view of Sarteano. The village is located on a hill and is dominated by the castle tower, clearly visible in the distance.
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Very interesting and magical place. To visit and immerse yourself in the history of the place
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The Rocca del Leone is the medieval fortress with an irregular pentagonal structure built starting from the thirteenth century. This is the main monument of Castiglione del Lago and is definitely worth a visit.
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Built in the 13th century, Castelluccio di PIenza is located about ten km from the town and is also called Castelluccio Bifolchi after the name of the first owners. It was fortified in the 14th century with two corner towers still intact today. Today it is privately owned.
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Castiglione del lago, one of the many most beautiful villages in Umbria.
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A small walled town with a beautiful view of the lake. You’ll find a few restaurants inside and more scattered in the shore. It takes only a couple of minutes to ride end to end - its that small!
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Arroccata su un promontorio sulle sponde occidentali del Lago Trasimeno sorge Castiglione del Lago, uno dei borghi più suggestivi di tutta l’Umbria. Situato in provincia di Perugia, confina con Arezzo e Siena e gode di una vista invidiabile sulle splendide acque del lago. La cittadina fu fondata dagli Etruschi e ampliata dai Romani, ma è nel periodo medievale che raggiunge il suo massimo splendore, sotto la guida della famiglia Corgna. Il suo nome deriverebbe dal termine Castellum Leonis ossia Castello del Leone, la struttura difensiva che caratterizza il borgo. Il suo passato ricco di storia e la sua bellezza senza tempo rendono oggi Castiglione del Lago uno dei luoghi assolutamente da non perdere quando si visita il centro italia. Immerso nel Parco Regionale del Trasimeno, il borgo è uno dei comuni costieri che caratterizzano quest’area naturale protetta di incredibile bellezza. Cosa vedere a Castiglione del Lago Una visita a Castiglione del Lago non può che iniziare dal Palazzo Ducale, anche noto come Palazzo Corgna, la reggia della famiglia che ha regalato prestigio al paese lacustre, voluta da Ascanio della Corgna nel 1563. Inizialmente concepita come residenza di campagna, il palazzo ebbe l’onore di ospitare personaggi del calibro di Leonardo Da Vinci e Niccolò Machiavelli e nasconde al suo interno splendide sale affrescate, opera tra gli altri di Pomarancio. Il palazzo è attualmente sede del comune di Castiglione. La celebre Rocca del Leone è collegata al Palazzo della Corgna attraverso un affascinante camminamento coperto affacciato sul lago, curiosamente unico punto di accesso alla fortezza. La Rocca domina dall’alto il borgo di Castiglione del Lago e l’intero Trasimeno, e fu realizzata nel XIII secolo per volere di Federico II di Svevia. Si narra che il suo nome derivi dalla sua forma pentagonale ispirata alla costellazione del Leone ed è certamente uno degli scorci più belli ammirabili nel borgo. Camminando poi tra le vie del centro storico di Castiglione del Lago, è possibile coglierne l’aria genuina ed il glorioso passato, curiosando tra gli stretti vicoli ed affacciandosi alle mura medievali che abbracciano l’intero abitato. Il borgo è punteggiato di botteghe artigianali e locande cariche di profumi tradizionali, ed è un vero piacere scivolare tra le sue piazzette e restare sorpresi dalle prospettive che spuntano da dietro ogni angolo. Ancora visibili sono le porte di accesso al centro del borgo, che sono tre: Porta Perugina, del XIII secolo, Porta Fiorentina, risalente al XVI secolo e Porta Senese, di origine medievale ma ricostruita nel ‘900. Di incredibile bellezza è anche il percorso panoramico che segue il perimetro esterno delle mura, detto il Poggio Olivato. Tra gli edifici religiosi di Castiglione, meritano una menzione sia la Chiesa di Santa Maria Maddalena, della metà dell’800, scrigno di opere di Eusebio da San Giorgio, discepolo del Perugino, e la Chiesa di San Domenico costruita dal duca Fulvio Alessandro della Corgna in ringraziamento per un miracolo ricevuto dal santo, e che ospita oggi le tombe di membri della famiglia più importante nella storia del villaggio. Cosa fare sul Lago Trasimeno Il vicino Lago Trasimeno è un’attrazione irrinunciabile e mentre si sosta a Castiglione del Lago sono numerose le attività che la zona lacustre propone. Le coste del lago offrono infatti sia l’opportunità di trascorrere rilassanti giornate sulle loro spiagge attrezzate, tra relax e deliziosi pranzi con vista sulle onde, così come quella di dedicarsi agli sport acquatici più avventurosi, come vela, windsurf, kitesurf e canottaggio. Le spiagge di Merangola Sports Beach, una bellissima area attrezzata, e la spiaggia il Pescatore Cafe Praia, promettono entrambe momenti indimenticabili, mentre se si desidera solcare le acque del lago da Castiglione ci si può imbarcare per raggiungere la non distante Isola Polvese, la più grande delle tre isole del Trasimeno, di grande interesse naturalistico e culturale. Imperdibili sulle sponde dell’isola i boschi di alloro e leccio, così come il Castello Medievale ed il Monastero di San Secondo. Di interesse anche la Piscina del Porcinai, Giardino di Piante Acquatiche opera di Pietro Porcinai, noto paesaggista del XX secolo. tratto da: SIVIAGGIA.IT
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Sarteano is an Italian municipality of 4,664 inhabitants in the province of Siena in Tuscany. It is a town of historical and naturalistic importance, located on the foothills of the Val d'Orcia on a plateau bordering the Val di Chiana. The medieval past of the town is evidenced by the castle, the main element of the architectural landscape, and by a large number of churches. Sarteano's economy is diversified, but fundamentally based on agriculture and tourism.
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For breathtaking panoramic views, the Fortezza di Radicofani is highly recommended. Perched atop a mountain, it offers expansive vistas of the Val d'Orcia and the Tuscan hills, including Monte Amiata. You can ascend the main tower for the best perspective. Similarly, Sarteano Castle provides stunning views of the Valdichiana, Mount Cetona, and the lakes of Chiusi and Montepulciano from its keep. The village of Monteleone d'Orvieto also features a tower, 'Il Torrione', with magnificent views across Umbria, Tuscany, and Lazio.
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always available, castles like the Fortezza di Radicofani offer engaging experiences for families. It features explorable structures like underground passageways, shooting platforms, and even a working medieval catapult, which can be exciting for children. The fortress also houses the Museo del Cassero with archaeological finds. Sarteano Castle, with its well-preserved walls and secret spiral staircase, can also spark imagination and provide an interesting historical outing for families.
The castles around Chiusi offer deep dives into regional history. The Fortezza di Radicofani, dating back to the 9th century, was a crucial stronghold controlling the Via Francigena and was famously occupied by the brigand Ghino di Tacco. Sarteano Castle, established in 1038, withstood numerous sieges, including those by Cesare Borgia, and its architecture reflects centuries of defensive strategies. Monteleone d'Orvieto Castle, built by Orvieto in the 11th century, served as a vital defensive point on its northern borders. Even the ancient Castle of Count Cattani, though partially ruined, speaks to early medieval power struggles and its connection to St. Francis of Assisi.
Yes, many of the castles allow for extensive exploration. At the Fortezza di Radicofani, you can explore underground passageways, shooting platforms, bastions, and walkways along the walls. It also houses the Museo del Cassero. Sarteano Castle retains its keep, massive walls, and circular towers, with a fascinating spiral staircase that once served as an escape route. Monteleone d'Orvieto Castle allows visitors to explore its medieval village, fortified walls, towers, and the original North Gate.
Yes, the region around Chiusi offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find routes like the 'Lake Chiusi – Chiusi Beach loop' or the 'View of Montevenere loop'. If you prefer gravel biking, options include the 'Le Crocette Picnic Area – Lake Chiusi loop' or the 'Lake Chiusi – Reclamation Trail loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Chiusi guide and the Gravel biking around Chiusi guide.
The best time to visit the castles around Chiusi is generally during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for exploring, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can be hot, but early mornings or late afternoons are still enjoyable. Winter offers a quieter experience, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
While not a traditional 'hidden gem' in terms of being completely unknown, the Castello di Trequanda is a less frequently visited castle compared to larger fortresses. Built in the 13th century and fortified in the 14th century, it retains two intact corner towers and offers a glimpse into medieval architecture. Although privately owned today, its historical significance and well-preserved elements make it an interesting stop for those seeking a quieter historical experience.
Many castles are located near or within charming towns that offer amenities. For instance, the Fortezza di Radicofani includes a restaurant within its grounds. Sarteano Castle is located in the municipality of Sarteano, which has a variety of local eateries and cafes. Similarly, Monteleone d'Orvieto is recognized as 'one of the most beautiful villages in Italy' and provides a peaceful retreat with local establishments. It's always a good idea to check local listings for current operating hours.
The time needed to visit a castle varies depending on its size and your interest. For a comprehensive visit to a larger fortress like the Fortezza di Radicofani or Sarteano Castle, including exploring the grounds, towers, and any museums, you should allocate at least 2-3 hours. Smaller sites or those primarily viewed from the exterior, like Castello di Trequanda, might only require 30 minutes to an hour. If you plan to combine a castle visit with exploring the surrounding town, allow for a half-day.
Yes, absolutely. While Chiusi is in Siena province, the region borders other provinces and even regions, offering more castle options. For example, Monteleone d'Orvieto Castle is located in Umbria (Terni Province) but is very close to the Tuscan border and historically linked to the Chiusi area. It's a charming medieval village with a castle that offers panoramic views. Another example, though further afield, is the Castle of Count Cattani in Chiusi della Verna (Arezzo Province), an ancient fortification with deep historical roots.
Sarteano Castle stands out for its remarkable architectural integrity and its history of successfully withstanding numerous sieges. Built on a travertine rock massif, it retains its massive walls, circular towers, and a fascinating secret spiral staircase that once served as an escape route during attacks. Following extensive restoration, it now functions as a cultural center, hosting various events, from historical re-enactments to art exhibitions, making it a vibrant historical landmark.


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