Piazza del Pretorio Guide
Piazza del Pretorio: Sovana's Historic Heart Guide
Piazza del Pretorio is the main square and historical heart of Sovana, a picturesque village in Tuscany, Italy. This charming piazza is surrounded by significant historical buildings, creating a captivating atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. It's a perfect place to soak in the medieval ambiance and appreciate the architectural beauty of this hidden gem. The Piazza del Pretorio has been the center of Sovana's civic and social life since the Middle Ages. The buildings surrounding the square, including the Palazzo Pretorio (the former town hall), the Loggia del Capitano, and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, reflect the town's rich history and the power it once held. Sovana was an important Etruscan and Roman settlement, and later a significant medieval center, leaving its mark on the architecture and layout of the piazza. Visitors to Piazza del Pretorio can stroll through the square, admiring the historical buildings and soaking in the atmosphere. Take photos of the Palazzo Pretorio and the Loggia del Capitano. Visit the nearby Sovana Cathedral and the Etruscan tombs just outside the town. Sovana offers a taste of authentic Tuscan cuisine, with local restaurants serving dishes like pici pasta with wild boar ragu and ribollita (a hearty bread and vegetable soup).
Transportation
Sovana is best reached by car. From Rome, take the A1 motorway north towards Florence, exit at Orte, and follow signs for Viterbo and then Sovana. From Florence, take the A1 motorway south towards Rome, exit at Chiusi-Chianciano Terme, and follow signs for Sovana. Local bus services connect Sovana to Pitigliano and other nearby towns.