Having some technical connection problems and time constraints, but thought I would post at least one day.

Left the plains of northern Tuscany on Sunday morning to move into the hill towns and on to Pienza for three nights. On the way to Pienza we stopped at Monteriggioni, a 13th century walled fortress for a cappuccino. So began our frequent uphill (and downhill) treks into the hill towns… ah, but oh so beautiful — and what a quiet little village Monteriggioni is!

Monteriggioni

The Tuscan landscape… and the Calanchi ( clay hills)

Our next stop was the abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore. A Benedictine monastery set amongst forests of cypress, pine and oak.

The abbey — Spectacular setting, wonderful frescoes and moving Gregorian chant sung by the monks at Sunday mass.

Delicious ravioli for lunch at the restaurant at the abbey.

Arrived at Pienza, our home for the next 3 nights. Pienza was constructed by Pope Pius II in the mid 15th century as an ideal renaissance city. Even the medieval cathedral was torn down to make way for a “new” renaissance cathedral.

Pienza

A small city full of life- children playing outside the cathedral in Pienza on a Sunday afternoon.

Looking down on the beautiful Orcia Valley from Pienza at sunset.