Encounter with history

Montepulciano, surrounded by historic cities such as Siena, Arezzo and Perugia, lies in one of the richest cultural landscapes in Europe. Graves, foundations and objects from Etruscan times point to the origins of civilisation here, which date far back to the 3rd century BC.

Documentarily mentioned since 714 AD

A document from 714 is the first written record of the town's existence during the Roman Republic and the imperial period. Thanks to its strategic position on a hill, from which the lower valleys of the Chiana and Orcia rivers could be controlled, Montepulciano reached its greatest importance in the Middle Ages. As the economy flourished, the historic quarters of the town gradually emerged, and their medieval structure can still be seen today.

Outpost of Siena and Florence

In continuous disputes, the cities of Siena and Florence fought for almost three hundred years (from 1154 to 1511) for supremacy in the flourishing town, using it as an outpost of their own sphere of power. The inhabitants of the town - the "Poliziani" - joined the Republic of Florence in 1202 in order to be better armed against the expansive attacks of the city of Siena. With the peace treaty between Siena and Florence in 1511, Montepulciano finally fell under the authority of the Florentines.

Renaissance Town of Montepulciano

Montepulciano's close ties with Florence not only influenced the town's politics, but are also evident in its architecture. Montepulciano, which is rich in works of art, received its present townscape mainly in the Renaissance and late Renaissance periods. With their typical sandstone and travertine façades, many buildings bear a strong resemblance to Florentine structures or repeat and use their elements.

Ideal place for inspiration and creativity

Situated in the immediate vicinity of the Piazza Grande, the Palazzo is part of the historic centre, where the town hall and the houses of the great noble families are located. In addition to the frescoed Salone in the Piano Nobile, it has an inner courtyard with a spacious archway and a panoramic view over the hills. The nearby 18th-century Teatro Poliziano is also used as a venue. In Palazzo Ricci itself, chamber music ensembles and smaller chamber orchestras can be accommodated in a total of 18 rooms. An ideal setting for artistic work and performances of all kinds.