Rocca di Castellina in Chianti

History

From the Trebbiesi to Florence

The first written mentions date to the 11th century, when Castellina was a fortified settlement of the Conti Guidi, dependent on the castle of Trebbio (in present-day Trebbia, a hamlet of Radda in Chianti). For this reason the site was called «Castellina de’ Trebbiesi». In the 13th century Castellina joined the Lega del Chianti and was the capital of one of its three terzieri, together with Radda and Gaiole.

A border stronghold

Close to the border between Florence and Siena, the area was throughout the Middle Ages the scene of clashes, and Castellina long remained an advanced stronghold of the Florentines. In 1397 the castle was attacked and destroyed by the troops of Gian Galeazzo Visconti, an ally of the Sienese; in 1400 the Florentine Republic regained possession and strengthened its defences, with a wider circuit of walls in the shape of an irregular hexagon, with numerous square towers.

Layout

The defensive system included the walls, with two gates (the Fiorentina and the Senese), and a massive crenellated keep at the highest point of the settlement. Long stretches of the walls remain around the old centre; neither of the two gates has survived: the Fiorentina was destroyed during the First World War and replaced by an opening in period style. The keep is in excellent condition, with two square blocks and high walls.

Where it is

In the historic centre of Castellina in Chianti (Siena, Tuscany), halfway between Siena and Florence.

Practical information

Tickets and where to buy them

Admission to the archaeological museum housed in the Rocca is paid or free depending on the conditions: to be confirmed with the Fondazione Musei Senesi.

Opening days and hours

Opening days and hours: to be confirmed.

Where to eat

Trattorias and restaurants can be found in the village and the surrounding area; the up-to-date list is to be confirmed with the municipality or the tourist office.

Parking and services

Parking and services: to be confirmed. In historic centres, car access may be restricted.

Accessibility and other information

The Rocca houses the town hall: accessibility of the individual rooms is to be confirmed. The museum is part of the Fondazione Musei Senesi.

Opening hours, prices and services change often: before visiting, call the official number or check the castle’s website. Last checked: November 2026.

Sources: Rocca di Castellina in Chianti (Wikipedia), Castellina in Chianti (Wikipedia), Museo archeologico del Chianti senese (Wikipedia).