Capalbio is a lovely medieval village in southern Tuscany. Perched on top of a hill, it overlooks the surrounding Maremma countryside with vineyards, the Mediterranean scrub and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

During the Middle Ages, it belonged to the Aldobrandeschi family, then the Orsini Counts, and later it was annexed to the Sienese Republic. When the territory was turned over to Cosimo dei Medici, it began a slow demographic and economic decline. This led to the onset of the banditry, which plagued the Maremma for a great number of years.

Today, the town’s medieval structure is almost completely intact. You can appreciate its charm by walking along the narrow streets in the historic center, along the massive walls (the path of the ancient patrol), and at the Sienese entrance gate with 15-century wooden doors. Do not miss Chiesa di San Nicola, dating back to the Middle Ages and featuring beautiful frescoes; and the Renaissance-style Palazzo Collacchioni in the historic center.

In the vicinity of Capalbio, you can visit the WWF Oasis of Lake Burano, the Tarot Garden, a number of wineries, and the beaches of Chiarore, Macchiatonda and la Torba. Many vineyards in the area produce the Capalbio DOC wines, which come in all forms: red, white, rosé and even Vin Santo (dessert wine).

Every year, Capalbio hosts a number of small but prestigious culture and artistic events, such as Capalbio Cinema International Short Film Festival, and PhC Capalbiofotografia.

Capalbio is one of the region’s main artisanal and artistic centers. Among the cultural local initiatives is Capalbio Arte, which was created to promote handmade crafts.

Photo credits: all images from comune.capalbio.gr.it