The wine town of Terricciola and its impressive history
In the middle of the Tuscan hills, between the river valleys of the Cascina and the Era, lies the small village of Terricciola. Together with the districts of La Rosa, Morrona, Selvatelle, Soiana and Soianella, the municipality has a population of just over 4.500. Due to its hilltop location, the historic town developed very early into the center of the Wine production of the Valdera (Era Valley). In addition to fine wines, the region is also known for its excellent wines Extra virgin olive oils, game and sausage specialties as well as a number of special ones cheeses. However, the small town is particularly proud of its history, which dates back to the Middle Ages and far back to the time of the Etruscans, one of the great peoples of antiquity.
Medieval town center
The medieval fortifications gave Terricciola its name. It goes back to the Latin “turris”, which refers to the fortification towers, remnants of which are still preserved on the northwestern part of the former city wall. In the Middle Ages, a dispute broke out between Pisa and Florence over the former Etruscan village. After the villagers swore allegiance to the Republic of Florence in 1284, Pisa managed to take control of the place in 1406. The city coat of arms of Terricciola with the Florentine lily and Pisan cross still reminds us of these military conflicts today. With its narrow streets, the town reflects its medieval origins and not just in the historic town center.
The main historical attractions are:
- the “Villa Gherardi del Testa” from the second half of the 17th century at the entrance to the town, country residence of a then powerful noble family from Pisa. The villa is now inhabited by Countess Valeria Gherardi del Testa Barasaglia. A tour of the villa's courtyard, gardens and majestic halls and frescoes is possible upon prior request (English). Look forward to an apericena (aperitif with small appetizers) with the Countess and her memories.
- the parochial church “Chiesa di San Donato”, which is located at the highest point in the village and under which remains of the former keep are suspected.
- In the Morrona district there is “Badia di Santa Maria”, a former Romanesque monastery church from the 12th century that was restored in the 18th century.
- The baroque bell tower designed by Bellincioni in the Soiana district.
- The unique image of the Madonna of Monterosso in the sanctuary of the same name, painted by Masolino da Panicale in 1409.
On the trail of the Etruscans
Traces of Etruscan history can be found in the Hypogea of Terricciola. These underground vaults and former Etruscan tombs date back to the 4th century BC. BC were often used as wine cellars in the past. The most important hypogeum is located in Via della Fonte and now houses a collection of Etruscan funerary columns found during excavations in Terricciola. With funds from the European Union, the hypogea are currently being made accessible again, so that the “Ipogeo del Belvedere” and the other vaults and tunnels under the city can be visited again in the foreseeable future.
Wine town Terricciola
When you think of the name Terricciola, you could also think of the Italian word “terreno”, which means “land”. Because of its sandy composition and the abundance of fossil deposits, the soil around Terricciola is ideal for growing grapes such as Sangiovese, Trebbiano and Merlot. With around 25 unique wineries, Terricciola is a member of the Associazione Nazionale Città del Vino, the National Wine Town Association, and is part of the “Strada del Vino delle Colline Pisane” wine route. In the wineries all year round Wine tastings, Und Olive oil tastings and Events related to wine (Cantina Jazz, dinner in the vineyard, vernissage in the wine cellar). The biggest wine-related event is the traditional wine and grape festival (Festa dell' Uva e del Vino) from September 13th to 15th.
Make a note now
The residents of Terricciola love their festivals, where the whole town is in a party mood:
- Terricciola celebrates on the 1st and 2nd weekend in May The Festa della Fragola (= The Strawberry Festival) with typical cuisine, concerts, tastings and exhibitions.
- At the beginning of June takes place in the Morrona district La Festa dell'Allegria (= The Festival of Happiness). The small village specializes in the production of oil and wine and celebrates with a mix of enjoyment, art and entertainment.
- La Notte Bianca del Vino, (= the White Night of Wine) is celebrated on the 1st weekend in July with wine, live music on the street and street food.
- The Fiera di San Donato (the Mass of the Patron Saints of Terricciola) will be held on August 7th and Goblets of Stars (= Cups under the Stars) celebrated around August 7th, on the day of the shooting stars. The celebrations include wine, sparkling wine, grappa, rum, live music on the street, street food and chocolate
- The traditional wine and grape festival takes place on the 2nd or 3rd weekend in September: La Festa dell'Uva e del Vino.
Holiday homes in Terricciola
Also due to its central position in relation to the most famous cities in Tuscany, Terricciola has become increasingly important in terms of tourism over the last 20 years. Here is a selection of holiday homes for holidaymakers who want to visit Terricciola:
- Terricciola Estate
- Terricciola Winery 6
- Holiday apartment Tuscany 3
- Cottage Tuscany 2
- Apartment Morrona
Tip: Our Holiday Home In Tuscany is just 700 meters from the historic town center of Terricciola and offers four traditionally furnished holiday apartments and a 6.000 square meter garden with pool.
