Vertine
Fortified oasis in the Chianti mountains
Vertine is one of the best preserved examples of military architecture in Chianti and more precisely in the municipality of Gaiole.
The excellent condition in which it is located today, especially the castle with its almost oval shape, most of the fortifications and many of the buildings located around a circle of avenues and open spaces, make it a more than interesting destination.
The origins of the castle are thought to be before the year 1000, but in the 12th century it became a feud of the Ricasoli family, and their residence during the two Aragonese wars (1452/1483), then commissioners in Chianti for the Republic. A strategic point and governmental seat of the Republic, it underwent a remarkable restoration in the 16th century.
Even in this fortified oasis since the sixties things have gradually changed as in the rest of agricultural Tuscany. In the 1950s, about six hundred people lived in Vertine and the surrounding farmhouses. It was fine, the main families were very few.
Towards the end of the 1980s, (but especially since the 1990s) people had chosen to move around for more interesting jobs. In addition to this, tourism has also changed in the new residents of the village, until then owners of second homes, but still culturally amateurs and connoisseurs of the place. Vertine is characterized and is characterized by being a place in constant change.
Why should you visit Vertine
it is a perfectly preserved ancient fortified village
it is located along the Strada dei Castelli
from here it is possible to admire an enchanting and changing panorama
Continue with the discovery of Chianti...
Romanesque parish church of San Giusto in Salcio
Romanesque parish church of San Giusto in Salcio Sober, but imposing with the grey/soft colour of the stoneThe parish church of San Giusto in Salcio is an ancient Catholic church among the oldest in Chianti and belongs to the diocese of Fiesole.Continue with the...
Radda in Chianti
Radda in Chianti A place known for its evocative atmosphere and its marvelous landscapes Radda in Chianti is a spectacular medieval village enclosed by massive defensive walls, located on top of the hill that divides the valleys of Arbia and Pesa. To its typically...
Castellina in Chianti
Castellina in Chianti Among woodlands, wildlife and Etruscan civilizationThe picturesque village still maintains the quadrilateral shape typical of the ancient medieval fortifications. The main fortification and the heart of the town is the ancient fortress, designed...