Sarteano is a comune (municipality) in the [[Province of Siena]] in the [[Italian region]] [[Tuscany]], located about 100 kilometres (62 mi) southeast of [[Florence]] and about 60 kilometres (37 mi) southeast of [[Siena]].
Geography
Sarteano is situated in the [[Val di Chiana]] valley, specifically within the area known as Valdichiana Senese. It lies on the border between the hills of the [[Orcia Valley]] to the west and the flatter plains towards [[Lake Trasimene]] to the east. The territory is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and agricultural lands, with a significant portion included in the Riserva Naturale di Pietraporciana, a protected natural reserve. The area is also known for its natural springs and groundwater sources.History
The history of Sarteano dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement from the [[Bronze Age]]. It flourished as an important [[Etruscan civilization|Etruscan]] center, as attested by numerous archaeological findings, including extensive necropolises and the famous Tomba della Quadriga Infernale (Tomb of the Infernal Chariot). During the [[Roman Empire|Roman]] era, the area remained prosperous, primarily due to its fertile agricultural lands.In the [[Middle Ages]], Sarteano gained strategic importance owing to its elevated and defensible position. The town's imposing castle, a significant example of medieval military architecture, began to take its current form during this period. Sarteano became a free comune in the 13th century but later fell under the influence of various larger city-states, including [[Orvieto]] and [[Perugia]], before eventually becoming part of the [[Republic of Siena]]. After the fall of Siena in 1555, Sarteano was incorporated into the [[Grand Duchy of Tuscany]], under the rule of the [[House of Medici]].
Main Sights
- Sarteano Castle: A well-preserved medieval fortress, originally dating back to the 10th century, which dominates the town's skyline. It features a trapezoidal plan with four towers and offers panoramic views of the Val di Chiana.
- Collegiate Church of San Lorenzo: The main religious edifice of Sarteano, exhibiting a Romanesque structure with later Baroque modifications. It houses important artworks, including a fresco by [[Il Sodoma]].
- Civic Archaeological Museum: Located in the historic Palazzo Gabrielli, the museum displays findings from local Etruscan necropolises, including funerary urns, bronze artifacts, and the reconstruction of the "Tomba della Quadriga Infernale," showcasing a replica of its famous fresco.
- Etruscan Necropolises: Several ancient burial sites are scattered around the comune, notably the Necropolis of Sferracavalli and the original Tomba della Quadriga Infernale (accessible by guided tour), which features rare Etruscan frescoes.
- Pietraporciana Natural Reserve: A protected area known for its ancient beech forests and diverse wildlife, offering hiking trails and natural beauty.