© Giulio Santinami

In the territory of Sorano, near Castell’Azzara, there are two interesting, although different, examples of fortified constructions: the Montorio Castle and the fortress of the Castell’Ottieri.

Montorio Castle is a small fortified centre located on a rocky embankment. From the 12^th century on, it belonged to a local dynasty headed by a certain Count Bartolomeo. Conquered by the Orvieto Bishop and later by the Aldobrandeschi family, in 1475 it passed into the hands of the Republic of Siena.

Once its strategic function was no longer necessary, it was transformed in the modern era into a large agricultural estate and underwent various renovations; for example, the large Neogothic-style entry preceded by a deep moat which leads to the interior of the complex. The complex includes a few 19^th century buildings destined for agricultural use and a chapel, also in Neogothic style, dedicated to Santa Maria Bambina (Baby St. Mary).

What is left of the original structure are a large scarp base and two large circular towers.

The fortress of Castell’Ottieri is a robust 15^th century construction in tuff located at the entry to the town, which was the capital of the small Ottieri State. The Ottieri State dates back to the 12^th century and, through various events, remained independent until 1616, when it was incorporated in the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.

The fortress has an irregular layout and is formed by the union of a large semi-circular tower and a building with a square base joined to the castle walls. The entryway with a lowered round arch is still visible. The fortress is five floors high and still has, at the top of the large tower and on the external wall of the quadrangular building, two coats of arms belonging to the Ottieri family.

The Aldobrandeschi Family

Sorano, The town of the tuff

Castell’Ottieri, Church of St. Bartholomew (Sorano)

Castle of Montorio

Address:
Montorio - Sorano (GR)

Fortress of Castell’Ottieri

Address:
Castell’Ottieri - Sorano (GR)