A story beneath the surface
Valdichiana Hidden — Journey into the Underground connects Cortona, Lucignano, Monte San Savino and Castiglion Fiorentino through places that tell the story of the territory from below. The itinerary starts at the MAEC archaeological area at Sodo di Cortona, where the Etruscan tumuli known as Meloni bear witness to the prestige of aristocratic families between the late 7th and 6th century BC. Entering these spaces means confronting an ancient funerary landscape and an idea of memory built to last. The route does not seek mysterious effects for their own sake: it uses the underground spaces to make visible layers of history that are often overlooked.
Prisons, cisterns and archaeological paths
In Lucignano the visit leads into the historic prisons of the Palazzo Comunale, within a building that also houses the Museo dell'Albero d'Oro and the Sala delle Udienze. In Monte San Savino, the Renaissance Cisternone beneath the hanging garden of the Palazzo di Monte displays an extraordinary water infrastructure made up of two vaulted naves. Castiglion Fiorentino completes the journey with the underground archaeological path of the Cassero, where traces of a protohistoric village, an Etruscan house and sanctuary emerge, along with the bases of medieval towers. Each stop changes era and function, but all of them tell the story of how communities inhabited, protected and organized the territory.
Four Municipalities, one shared historical depth
The Experience is designed for enthusiasts of archaeology, architecture and history, yet it remains accessible to anyone who wishes to discover a less obvious Valdichiana. Guided visits help orient visitors among very different periods and reveal the continuity of settlements. It is important to note that some underground environments may feature stairs, narrow passages or particular access conditions; any specific needs should be communicated in advance. The route requires attention, but it offers a rare reading of the territory. On the surface remain villages and squares; beneath them is preserved the deep structure of their history.
What is included
- Guided visits, lasting approximately one hour for each stop, at the four sites included in the route.
- Entrance to the museums and sites included in the programme.
- Organisational assistance for coordinating the visits.
What is not included
- Transport and travel between locations, available on request.
- Meals, personal expenses and services not expressly indicated in the programme.