Roccalbegna

THE VILLAGE WITH TWO CASSERI

Roccalbegna is located in the Valle dell'Albegna in a somewhat unique position, on a plateau between two crags overlooking centuries used for defensive purposes. The town has medieval origins in the 13th century is among the possessions of the Aldobrandeschi family then passed under the Dominion of Siena until half of the 500 when he took over the power of Florence of Medici.

Another characteristic of the area are the two spikes of rock above the village, on the higher said "il sasso" is a Cassero built by the Aldobrandeschi and main fortification of Roccalbegna. The fortress built right on top of the cliff, while being particularly impressive, aroused concern over the centuries for the postings of rock that sometimes occur. Its Summit is reached by a path and its top you can enjoy a unique landscape that embraces the Valle dell'Albegna. The other rocky outcrop, however, lies the Cassero built by the Senesi, lesser fortress used as a lookout point.

Among the religious buildings worthy of precious is the Church of Saints Pietro and Paolo, in the central square of the town, 13th-century Gothic church which preserves the triptych Madonna con Bambini e i Santi Pietro e Paolo considered one masterpiece of maestro Ambrogio Lorenzetti.

 

Traditions and typical products

Among the local products the salty biscuit of Roccalbegna, made with flour, oil, aniseed, white wine and characterized by a double baking. For its uniqueness in 2016 the biscuit has become a Slow Food Presidium. Part of the municipal area is also within the Consorzio Tutela del Vino Montecucco.

 

Photo Credits [thatsamiata.com]