Discover Montemignaio – Holiday Apartment for Nature, Culture and Polenta

Montemignaio amid forests, history and regional cuisine

Montemignaio lies on the wooded slopes of Pratomagno and is surrounded by oak and chestnut forests. From here, there are sweeping views across terraced fields. The oak and chestnut forests also accompany the route of the Via di Francesco as it leads out of Montemignaio.

Forest paths and sweeping views

One stage of the Via di Francesco leaves Montemignaio through chestnut and oak forests, heads towards the Maestà di Picche chapel and crosses an ancient Roman bridge. Anyone planning the route for a day of hiking from Montemignaio can use two specific waypoints as reference points: the Maestà di Picche chapel and the ancient Roman bridge.

In addition, an easy walking route, suitable for exploring on foot or by mountain bike, passes by the small cascade at Ricavo. The route to Ricavo can be planned separately for the day; travelling on foot or by mountain bike keeps the options flexible.

The municipality of Montemignaio is also home to La Panchina Gigante di Consuma. It stands on a natural terrace above the Passo della Consuma and offers views across the Casentino Valley.

Churches and traces of history

Castello di Montemignaio was built between the 11th and 13th centuries and belonged to the Guidi counts.

The Pieve di Santa Maria Assunta is a Romanesque church dating from the 11th century. The parish church of Santa Maria Assunta in Cielo houses a glazed terracotta representation. It depicts the Madonna and Child between Saint Anthony the Great and Saint Sebastian and is attributed to Benedetto Buglioni. Those interested in culture can focus on the history of the castle, the Romanesque parish church or the terracotta representation in the parish church.

In the surroundings of Montemignaio, the Oratorio della Madonna delle Calle has a 17th-century altar. It includes a copy of the 15th-century image of the Madonna delle Calle by Giovanni di Francesco Toscani.

Montemignaio is known as a place of Christmas trees because growing fir trees is a traditional local activity. Fir cultivation complements the historical and religious themes with a traditional aspect of everyday life in Montemignaio.

Polenta, chestnut flour and autumn traditions

In autumn, Montemignaio hosts the Sagra della polenta, a festival celebrating polenta made from cornmeal and chestnut flour.

Chestnut flour is produced in Montemignaio and used as an important ingredient in numerous local recipes. Montemignaio's chestnut polenta is called Pulenda and is usually served with fresh cheese and ricotta.

During the Sagra della polenta, food stalls around the old castle serve polenta, Baldino, sweet wine and other traditional dishes throughout the day.

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To the higher-level travel overview: Arezzo.