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A stage on the Arezzo branch.
A final stage full of historical and sacred gems leads to the proud and unassailable Cortona. Leaving the town of Castiglion Fiorentino, the unmistakable profile of Montecchio Vesponi Castle provides the backdrop, immortalised by Beato Angelico in some of his paintings, with an immaculate medieval impact.
Walking surrounded by the evocative hills of the Valdichiana, not only is the peaceful and beautiful landscape ready to amaze, but the ancient olive trees conceal Etruscan remains from the Archaic period. Along your path, you will come across one of particular value: the tomb of Mezzavia. The burial mound is part of the archaeological park of Cortona and is just the prelude to your journey into the Etruscan world, which culminates at the MAEC (Museum of the Etruscan Academy) and the city of Cortona, in the heart of the historic centre.
But before reaching the beautiful town of Cortona, a place immersed in nature where silence mingles with mysticism, the 13th-century hermitage of Celle will enrich every step with spirituality and peace. Far from the beaten track and seemingly frozen in time, this is the first convent built by St Francis, and is the place where, at the end of his life, he probably dictated his will.
From the slopes of Monte Sant'Egidio, going up the narrow valley where the hermitage is located, you will reach the magnificent endpoint of this stage and one of the most beautiful villages in Tuscany, Cortona. The setting for various films, Cortona is the essence of Tuscan good living, as well as having a vast historical and artistic heritage, sunshine, atmosphere, authenticity and excellent food and wine.
