The region around Castellina in Chianti pre-dates the accession of the power of Rome, and was home to the earlier Etruscan peoples. Much of this can be better understood in a visit to the Etruscan Museum, which is now located in the town’s massive citadel, the Rocca of Castellina in Chianti, which was built to protect the region and to this day still stands guard despite the passage of time. This large Medieval fortress is one of the earlier buildings in the town, and was constructed in the 11th century, later being fortified and strengthened in the 14th century. The square design is reminiscent of the Roman influences that remained in Italy, even some 500 years after the fall of the Empire in the west. Within the walls is the new museum that includes numerous collections devoted to the Etruscan peoples, and includes the ancient lion head that was found in the nearby Etruscan cemetery at Monte Calvario.

The nearby town of Radda in Chianti is also home to another of the regions museum treasures. The new Museum of Sacred Art is housed in the Church of Santa Maria del Prato, and houses a collection of important sacred art including the famous painting “Madonna of Pilgrims of Gailoe,” which was painted by Simone Martini, as well as pieces by Fra Bartolomeo and other artists.

Several small but interesting museums of sacred art have been established throughout the chianti region and are worth a visit if you are passing through.