The symbol that unites the cities of Sovana, Sorano and Pitigliano is the tufo or tuff rock.

At the heart and name of these three cities is a rock that has always characterised this territory and its volcanic origins. Carved into the tuff rock, are small caves which were once inhabited by ancient civilisations and are still used today to store farm equipment.

Tied to the tuff rock is the heritage of this part of the Maremma Collinare.

Over the centuries, the tuff rock has been used by prehistoric civilisations, the Etruscans and those of the Middle Ages to shape the territory, the necropolises, the roads we still see today.

Even the towns themselves were shaped with this rock, which was used to built houses that appeared to be just another part of the impressive cliffs they stand on.

The history of this enchanting town was lost in the notes of time, but arriving from the coast, Pitigliano takes your breath away with its almost fairytale-like splendor. The town is perched on a plateau that was carved by the three rivers it overlooks. The territory was occupied in even the most archaic times and many of the tombs and relics found in the area date back to this period. Its domineering position favoured Pitigliano throughout the course of history and legend suggests the town was an impressive fortified city as far back as the Bronze Age. The city we see today has more modest roots set in the Middle Ages. Pitigliano’s winding alleys and charming houses has not only earned it international fame but also the title of one of the “Borghi più belli d’Italia” or “Most Beautiful Towns in Italy.” Pitigliano’s rich tradition is made even richer by the small Jewish community that has earned it the nickname Piccola Gerusalemme or Little Jerusalem. Part of Pitigliano’s community for centuries, this Jewish community has left behind a beautiful Synagogue and inspired a museum, which allows visitors to experience the Jewish culture that help shape this striking tuff rock town.

Sorano too captures visitors with the way its buildings flow into and become part of the tuff rock that holds them. Inside the town lies a maze of small streets, each which weave in and out of one another, so that if you’re not careful you might lose your way. Sorano circles a striking valley of rivers, home to some of the territory’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Every bit of Sorano deserves to be visited, but for those short on time, the Masso Leopoldino, Orsini Fortress and San Rocco Park on the other side of the valley are must-sees. All around this small, picturesque town are olive groves and green fields where local farmers raise sheep and grow grain in the tranquil countryside. This rich agricultural heritage also makes Sorano home to a delicious traditional cuisine and some excellent local produces.