Tag Archives: Siena

Hill Towns of Central Italy

Posted on August 19, 2011 by Steve

In the Middle Ages the people who lived in the countryside in central Italy were frequently threatened by neighboring city-states.  In response, instead of living in the valleys, the people built fortifications on the top of hills for safety.  These … Continue reading →

Share
Posted in Europe, Italy | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

I think I see a dent – Driving in Italy, Episode 2

Posted on September 13, 2010 by Steve

Our first stop was the hill town of Orvieto.  The town was built as a minor fortress on top of a big hill hundreds of years ago.  It protected the serfs living in the surrounding countryside.  When trouble came, they … Continue reading →

Share
Posted in Driving, Europe, Italy | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments