Pitigliano : The Little Jerusalem

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Aprile 18, 2008

In Grosseto lies Pitigliano, a town in the region of Tuscan Maremma in Itally that is found atop steep rock formation out of volcanic disintegration. The town towers 313 meters above the level of the sea. The unique feature of the place is the presence of tuffs or rocks that are formed by the tremendous heat of volcanic magma. A definitely unique town, Pitigliano is dubbed as ‘Little Jersualem’ since the place is habited by Jewish people who are common dwellers in the area.

It was believed that the Etrucans were also one of the early settlers of Pitigliano. During the 13th century, documented accounts pointed that the Aldobrandescshi family, the noble Italian family, were former owners of the town. Around 15th century, the place became public and became a capital of a close county. Because of this noble status of its early years, Pitigliano was associated with nobility such as the Kingdom of Italy and the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.

Historically speaking, Pitigliano was one of the most vital centers of activity during the Etruscan period. Up to this time, cave tombs are still found in the area. There are also cellars, sheds and deep cut caves splinting into the tuffs, which are true evidences of its great past.

For hundred years in the past, Pitigliano became the front town of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. Pitigliano also cradled the Jewish communities long before and even built a synagogue that up to this time is operational and open for people to visit after it was restored in 1995.

There is a popular landmark lying outside the central district of the town. It is the Tempietto, or ‘small town’ in the local tongue. Renowned to have natural origin, human work improved the place. The purpose of this small temple as to why it exists is still a topic for scholars and historians nowadays.

Famous centuries old cathedrals are attractions in Pitigliano also. The Piazza San Gregorio, built around the 15th century, houses extraordinary paintings reflecting rich cultural era by excellent artist Pietro Aldo. San Rocco, another well-known old church in the town, boasts of magnificent architectural structures elegantly buiilt in a trapezoid shape layout. The church’s columns are slim and contain deposits of travertine.

Pitigliano may be small but visiting the town is a totally enriching experience. A walk down the town’s streets even becomes an informative stroll down memorable historical lanes of landmarks and periodic fine pieces that fulfill the senses with nostalgic feel. The absence of lakes and beaches doesn’t absolutely make the place less worthwhile to visit since there are a lot interesting happenings and activities around to do. It’s very hard to forget the place.

Maremma