Cortona
Cortona è un antico borgo collinare della provincia di Arezzo, in Toscana, affacciato sulla Val di Chiana e sulla valle del Lago T...
Atualizado em 19 julho 2026
Nesta estação · Julho · Verão
O que fazer em Cortona agora
A história
A história de Cortona
Introduction and location
Cortona sits on a hilltop spur on the border between Tuscany and Umbria, in the province of Arezzo, overlooking the Val di Chiana plain and, in the distance, the waters of Lake Trasimeno. Its elevated position has always given the town a strategic and scenic role, and from its natural terraces the view stretches across hills planted with olive groves and vineyards toward the Umbrian border. The historic centre, enclosed within ancient walls, preserves an urban layout shaped over centuries, with steep streets and stairways climbing toward the top of the hill.
History and origins
Cortona's origins date back to the Etruscan era, when it was one of the leading settlements of the Dodecapolis, the league of twelve Etruscan cities. The imposing polygonal walls that still encircle part of the hill bear witness to this ancient phase, as do the artefacts preserved in the town's museums. In Roman and later medieval times Cortona remained an important free commune before passing under the control of Florence and the Medici family, who strengthened its defences. Over the centuries the town has kept its own distinct identity, becoming a crossroads between Tuscan and Umbrian culture.
Nature and landscape
The Cortona countryside stretches from the slopes of Monte Sant'Egidio down to the Val di Chiana plain, offering a varied landscape that alternates woodland, centuries-old olive groves and vineyards planted on hillside terraces. The surrounding hills are crossed by hiking trails leading to small rural hamlets, stone farmhouses and scenic viewpoints over the valley. The proximity of Lake Trasimeno further enriches the natural setting, offering striking views especially at sunset, when the light brings out the golden tones of the Tuscan countryside.
Things to do and see
Wandering through the cobbled streets of the historic centre is the best way to discover Cortona: from the main square, the heart of town life, the streets climb toward the upper district, opening onto panoramic views at every turn. The town preserves civic and religious buildings of great interest, along with museums that tell the story of its Etruscan past and local art. Those who enjoy walking can follow a stretch of the ancient walls or head up to the fortress at the top of the hill, while nature lovers will find trails leading to a Franciscan hermitage tucked in the woods just outside town.
Flavours and traditions
Cortona's cuisine has its roots in the rural tradition of the Val di Chiana, an area renowned for raising Chianina cattle, the basis of simple, flavourful grilled meat dishes. Extra virgin olive oil from the surrounding hills, local wines grown on sun-exposed slopes, and typical Tuscan pulses such as beans all feature prominently. Trattorias in the historic centre offer seasonal menus, while nearby farms open their doors for oil and wine tastings, a chance to get closer to the agricultural work that still shapes this area today.
Not to be missed
- The historic centre with its stone streets and views over the Val di Chiana
- The ancient Etruscan-era walls encircling the hill
- The Medici-era fortress at the top of the town
- The town's museums dedicated to Etruscan history and local art
- The Franciscan hermitage set in the woods just outside the centre
Para ver
O que ver em Cortona
Caminhos · Trovido Route
Rotas em Cortona
Vagas · JobFlow
