Torre (Rocca) di Tentennano

The Tower of Tentennano rises from a limestone crag above Rocca d'Orcia, overlooking the Via Francigena and the Val d'Orcia. Its pentagonal keep preserves a medieval stronghold associated with the Salimbeni family and with Saint Catherine of Siena.

Why it matters

The site is recorded as a possession of the Abbey of Monte Amiata in 853. Its position above the valley made it a strategic point on the route between northern Italy and Rome.

What to notice

The keep is built of local limestone and retains sections of the surrounding defensive enclosure. Inside, the lower hall rests on the rock, while an upper room and a small triangular kitchen with a well, oven and flue preserve details of daily life. The terrace looks across the Val d'Orcia toward Monte Amiata and Monte Cetona.

Context and history

Siena took the fortress in 1251 and pledged it to the Salimbeni in 1274. Saint Catherine of Siena stayed at the tower in 1377; tradition holds that she received the gift of writing there and began her Dialogue. The Italian State received the property in 1971, and a conservative restoration began in 1975.