Of all places in Tuscany, the south-east region is particularly interesting to visit as a tourist. Whether you are a first time visitor, or a returning one, there isn’t a better place to visit for a wonderful time than Pienza.

In fact, this might be the only town in the area to have its center listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Pienza, Tuscany by Steve

Tourism in Pienza

The tourism of Pienza is just flourishing. In fact, to recognize the success of tourism in Pienza, the town received an orange flag as a sign of recognition. So, with that in mind, it is easy to assume that Pienza will offer quite a few sites for you to see.

Piazza Pio II, Pienza by Oschirmer

The Church of St. Francis

To start off your tour, perhaps it would be best that you travel to the gateway named Porta al Prato. It is because, there, at the entrance, you will have the chance to see the Church of St. Francis.

It was built in the 14th century, but still not affected by major changes made to all of the other establishment just a century later.

Inside of the church, you will be able to find some of the artifacts, most prominently, the wooden crucifix, made by the school of Duccio di Buoninsegna, as well as a table, crafted by Luca Signorelli.

Church of St. Francis (San Francesco), Pienza by Vignaccia76

The Unusual Pienza Cathedral

In Piazza Maggiore, right next to the Palazzo Piccolomini is the Pienza Cathedral, which was designed and constructed by Pius II.

The thing you will get to notice right at your first impression is the fact that this particular Cathedral doesn’t exactly feature the traditional Romanesque or Neoclassical style.

This is because Pius II wished of this cathedral to represent a copy of the Hallenkirchen, which is a German style church.

Pienza cathedral by Jose Gonzalez

Palazzo Piccolomini

The Palazzo Piccolomini, the palace we mentioned before is a place worthy of visiting.

This is a palace, which was the most impressive monumental palace to be built in this area, especially considering the fact how this particular palace took the most resources and money to build. It was designed by Leon Battista Alberti.

Palazzo Piccolomini by ho visto nina volare

The Gonzaga and the Jouffroy Palaces

Continuing on, seeing as Pienza is quite rich with palaces, if you are interested into visiting more of these majestic facilities, you may find a visit to both the Gonzaga and the Jouffroy palace equally as enjoyable.

These palaces, as well as the works of art which can be admired from within, can be associated with the time frame of the 15th century.

Streets in Pienza by Glen Bowman

Piazza di Spagna in Pienza

Piazza di Spagna in Rome is not the only in Italy. However not so famous as this one, Piazza di Spagna can also be found in Pienza, between Corso Rossellino and via Guglielmo Marconi, just behind Piazza Pio II.

Piazza di Spagna, Pienza by Enrico Carcasci

What else can be seen in Pienza?

Not all of the beauties Pienza has to offer are located within the city gates.

In fact, if you would like to explore the beautiful landscape which surrounds this peaceful town, you may find yourself treated to quite a few delicacies.
Along your way around the roads, you will have a chance to stop and enjoy a glass of good quality wine.

If you happen to stop by a restaurant, you will be treated to some of the local delicious dishes, common in the area. In Pienza, all of the delicacies are revolving around cheese and truffles. Be sure to try some dishes involving either or both ingredients.

Famous Pecorino cheese di Pienza by Stefano Costantini

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