Discover Sorano: The Matera of Tuscany
Sorano, known as the Matera of Tuscany, is a charming village located in the province of Grosseto, renowned for its extraordinary urban layout, featuring numerous cave dwellings carved into tuff stone, which resemble the famous Sassi of Matera. This unique village offers a journey into the past, where history blends with nature in a breathtaking landscape.
The Orsini Fortress: An Impressive Historic Structure
The Orsini Fortress in Sorano is a fortified and residential complex that dominates the upper part of the village. Positioned strategically, the fortress offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area. This imposing structure dates back to the Middle Ages and represents one of the most significant examples of fortified architecture in Tuscan Maremma. The fortress is one of the region's main historical attractions and a symbol of the Orsini family's power.
The Church of San Niccolò: History and Spirituality
The Church of San Niccolò is one of the most important religious sites in Sorano. The church is first mentioned in the Decima records of 1276 as a subordinate church to the Pieve di San Nicola di Selvena. Around 1290, Sienese craftsmen worked for Countess Margherita di Monfort to renovate the building. In 1509, the church became a collegiate church, and in the 18th century, it underwent significant expansions. Today, the Church of San Niccolò is a perfect example of Late Medieval art and spirituality.
The Masso Leopoldino: An Ancient Fortress in the Heart of Sorano
The Masso Leopoldino, also known as the Rocca Vecchia, is a historic fortified structure located in the center of Sorano, in Piazza del Poggio. This medieval castle, along with the Orsini Fortress and the Walls of Sorano, formed part of the town's defensive system in the Area of Tufo. Its location at the northwestern edge of the village makes it one of Sorano's most picturesque attractions, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Vie Cave: A Journey Through Ancient Etruria
The Vie Cave, also known as Cavoni, is an ancient Etruscan road network that connects various settlements and necropolises between Sovana, Sorano, and Pitigliano. These ancient paths, carved into the tuff stone, form evocative passages between towering rock walls, some reaching over twenty meters in height. The Vie Cave served as an effective defense system against invaders and remains one of the most fascinating legacies of the Etruscan civilization.
Why Visit Sorano During Your Stay at Our Tourist Village
Our tourist village is the ideal starting point to explore Sorano and its historical and natural wonders. After visiting the Orsini Fortress, Masso Leopoldino, and the captivating Vie Cave, you can relax in our wellness center and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Tuscan Maremma.
