Jewels of Maremma: Pitigliano and Sovana Tuscany Post Cruise Tour from Civitavecchia

itinerary

• Pitigliano
• Sovana

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PITIGLIANO & SOVANA Post-Cruise Tour from Civitavecchia Prices:

For 1- 4 participants from Rome:  680 Euros 
For 5- 6 participants from Rome:  750 Euros 
For 7- 8 participants from Rome:  850 Euros

* Be sure to include your Drop-Off Hotel Name and address in Rome in the Message Box

Just because your Mediterranean cruise has ended, your adventures don’t have to.   Embark on a delightful  Pitigliano and Sovana Tuscany Post Cruise Tour from Civitavecchia, where new adventures await in the heart of Southern Tuscany's Maremma region.

Explore beyond the beaten tourist path and immerse yourself in the authentic essence of this enchanting region that boasts a harmonious blend of vast landscapes, rustic charm, and ancient Etruscan heritage. Marvel at the spellbinding medieval towns of Pitigliano and Sovana, steeped in a rich history with a remarkable unbroken legacy since ancient times.

Our Tuscany post-cruise includes pick up from Civitavecchia and convenient drop off at your hotel in Rome for optimal convenience.

Your personal English-speaking Chauffeur will greet you on the Pier next to your cruise ship at 8:30 AM. Departing from Civitavecchia, you will journey through the picturesque landscapes of Lazio, venturing deep into the soul of Tuscany's Maremma region to your first destination: Pitigliano.

VISIT PITIGLIANO

Pitigliano is a timeless gem perched atop a mystical promontory where medieval stone buildings seem to rise gracefully from rugged cliffs. This ancient town boasts a rich heritage spanning from prehistoric origins to the glory of Roman colonization when it was known as Petilia Gens taking the names of its legendary founders Petilio and Celiano, and further unfolding through the captivating tapestry of the Medieval and Renaissance eras.

Wander along the enchanting maze of medieval streets lined with historical buildings with enticing shops and boutiques. Allow yourself to be transported back in time as you walk in the footsteps of illustrious figures like the Aldobrandeschi, Orsini, and Medici, whose grand Palazzo Orsini and the towering Medici Aqueduct are part of their legacy.

TIPS:  Interesting Things to see & do in Pitigliano

• Discover the Piccola Gerusalemme (the Little Jerusalem)

During your visit to Pitigliano, you have the unique opportunity to see for yourself why Pitigliano is fondly referred to as "Little Jerusalem" ( Piccola Gerusalemme) and discover the remnants of a vibrant Jewish community who settled here centuries ago escaping persecution. Explore the ancient Passover Matzoh bakery concealed within an underground cave, visit the restored Synagogue dating back to the late 16th century, and explore the intricate underground rock-carved cellars and ritual baths where the stories of a rich and meaningful past echo softly through the ages.

* Admission Tickets are required to visit Little Jerusalem.

• Savor the local traditional "Sfratto di Pitigliano"
  
  

While in Pitigliano, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the exquisite "Sfratto di Pitigliano", a crispy baton-shaped shell filled with a delicious blend of walnuts, honey, nutmeg, orange peel, and anise, creating a unique and flavorful combination. The shape and name of the sweet pay homage to the historic "sfratto" and the enduring legacy of the Jewish community in Pitigliano.

According to the historical account, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo II de Medici, issued an edict compelling the Jews from the nearby towns of Sovana, Sorano, and Pitigliano to resettle within the ghetto of Pitigliano between Via Zuccarelli and the southern walls of the city which subsequently became known as the Jewish ghetto. 

This decree was known as the "sfratto," which translates to "eviction" in Italian. 

It is said that those carrying out the eviction orders did so by knocking on the doors of Jewish homes with a stick.  A hundred years later, the sweet pastry was created by the Jewish people of Pitigliano to commemorate the event and replace it with a sweet reminder of the indomitable spirit of Pitigliano.  It is possible that this tasty local treat was also inspired by an ancient Etruscan recipe from ancient times.

• Explore the Boutiques of Pitigliano

Meander along the parallel Via Roma and Via Zucarelli, where charming boutiques extend a warm invitation to explore artisanal havens brimming with treasures waiting to be uncovered. Delight in hand-crafted hats that exude personality, indulge in the luxury of supple leather goods, exquisite artist-made ceramics, unique hand-crafted jewelry, and splurge on irresistible souvenirs that transport you into the heart and soul of Pitigliano. The temptation to savor regional delicacies from gastronomic boutiques and bakeries becomes irresistible.

Immerse yourself in an independent exploration that weaves shopping seamlessly into your Pitigliano adventure. Amidst the marvels of this town, let the delight of discovering its treasures be enhanced by the joy of indulging in a day of shopping.

Visit Palazzo Orsini

For guests interested in museums and Renaissance-era grandeur, Palazzo Orsini is home to a museum dating back to the 14th century. Count Niccolò II Orsini's expansions and Niccolò IV's enhancements during the 1500s have transformed the palazzo into a historical treasure.

Within its twenty-one rooms, visitors can marvel at meticulously restored 15th-century frescoes, and discover select antique furniture, ornate jewelry, coins, wooden sculptures, and oil paintings.

NOTE: The museum spans multiple levels of the palazzo, necessitating the ascent of medieval staircases, which may not be suitable for visitors with limited mobility.

Following a tasty Tuscan lunch in Pitigliano at a local ristorante of your choice, your Tuscany post-cruise tour continues to your next destination: Sovana.

VISIT SOVANA

Discover the hidden treasures of Sovana, a well-kept haven where time-honored tales trace back to the dawn of civilization, echoing the whispers of Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements within its picturesque landscape. This idyllic village carries the heritage of Roman colonization, preserving fragments of the once-thriving Roman colony Suana.

As you step foot in Sovana, a mesmerizing Middle Ages tale unfolds before your eyes. Sovana's enduring charm bears witness to its strength over the ages, surmounting the trials of time and triumphing over adversities such as wars, sackings, and even the challenges of malaria-induced depopulation.

At the heart of Sovana lies the enchanting Piazza del Pretorio, revered as one of Italy's 100 most stunning squares. Ancient stone buildings and elegant palazzi line its periphery, while the traditional herringbone-patterned bricks underfoot lead the way through a historical labyrinth.   While in Piazza del Pretorio, you may visit the sacred medieval church of Santa Maria Maggiore, or the small Museum of San Mamiliano which houses a small collection of ancient artifacts.

TIPS: Interesting Things to see & do in Sovana

• Relish a stroll through Sovana
  
  

Indulge in the enchantment of this ageless hamlet, allowing yourself to be enveloped in its timeless allure. Meander beyond the central square, venturing along the primary thoroughfare bordered by beautiful medieval stone buildings. Here, a world of delights awaits—charming cafes and boutiques with distinctive treasures.

As you journey further along this very street, a revelation awaits at its distant terminus—the resplendent Cathedral of Saint Peter. Simultaneously, at the opposite fringes of the village, the haunting remnants of Rocca Aldobrandesca unfurl tales of yore.

Delight in the timeless charm of this enchanting village as you wander along its charming lane, embracing the extraordinary blend of ancient history and medieval allure that sets Sovana apart as a treasured destination.

Explore Sovana's Santa Maria Maggiore Church and St Peter Cathedral

Located in Piazza del Pretorio, the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore presents an unassuming facade that belies the captivating wonders concealed within. Step inside to unveil an exquisitely preserved pre-Romanesque ciborium that takes center stage.

Delicately poised above the altar by regal pillars, this masterpiece of craftsmanship might have been repurposed from the hallowed halls of San Mamiliano church. Adorning the walls, intricate 15th-century frescoes echo a sacred legacy that reverberates through the corridors of time.

Further down in the village, majestically erected upon the reputed site of the Etruscan acropolis you'll discover the Romanesque and Gothic Cathedral of St. Peter. The cathedral's Gothic doorway captivates with intricate marble motifs, a mesmerizing dance of enigmatic symbols that stir echoes of medieval mysticism. As you wander through this architectural masterpiece, the harmony of its design and the grace it emanates will enthrall your senses.

* Admission Tickets are required to visit the Cathedral of St Peter.

• Behold  Rocca Aldobrandesca

Standing in regal prominence on the farthest end of the village, are the vestiges of Rocca Aldobrandesca. This formidable structure, once a bustling heart of the town, stood as a bastion of significance, ensuring access to water, hosting a  bakery, and safeguarding precious grains that sustained the community.

Nowadays, what endures are mere fragments—a gracious and inviting entrance that extends a warm embrace, a sentinel tower standing watch with unwavering resolve, and a steadfast segment of protective walls that have weathered the tests of time.

Tour enchanting journey through the hidden treasures of Maremma's Pitigliano and Sovana draws to a close at 3:30 PM. From here, you will join your personal chauffeur for a leisurely drive through the picturesque countryside towards Rome with an estimated arrival time of approximately 6:00 PM. 

Savor the lingering magic of Tuscany as memories of the captivating wonders you've encountered will dance in your heart, forever etched with the allure of ancient history and medieval charm.

Thank you for booking your Italy excursions with Rome Chauffeur.  We look forward to showing you the marvels and wonders of Tuscany on our Jewels of Maremma: Pitigliano and Sovana Tuscany Post Cruise Tour from Civitavecchia.

Important Information

* NOTE:  Please READ carefully the Important Information below, as well as Read and Accept our TERMS OF SERVICE  and Privacy Policy before booking.
 

• -  PAYMENT METHODS
  

The listed price of this Pitigliano and Sovana Tuscany Post Cruise tour is per vehicle, not per person.  Rome Chauffeur accepts online prepayment via PayPal or Credit Card at the time you confirm your tour, or you may pay on the Date of Service in Euro funds at the end of the tour made directly to your Chauffeur. If at any time you need extra funds on the day of your tour, your chauffeur will be happy to help you locate an ATM machine. 
 

• - CANCELLATION ADVISORY

Cancellations must be made at least 7 days prior to your Date of Service. Prepaid services canceled last minute less than 7 days or are No Show on the Date of Service are NOT Refundable.

Cancellations must be made in writing via E-Mail followed by an official cancellation confirmation E-Mail from our office in order for your cancellation to be valid. Cancellations are NOT accepted by Phone, Text, Or through 3rd Party individuals such as hotel clerks, friends, or concierge services. 

* CANCELLATION FOR PREPAID SERVICES: Only NET RATE will be issued on prepaid services. Net Rate is what we receive from your prepayment after PayPal / CC takes out their fees which they don't reimburse us in case of refunds. Therefore, we are only able to refund what we receive from you after PayPal/ CC takes out their fees.
 

MEETING POINT For SHORE EXCURSION FROM CIVITAVECCHIA:

Pick Up Time for this Tuscany Post Cruise Tour from Civitavecchia is 8:30 AM when you meet your English-speaking Rome Chauffeur on the pier next to your ship. Your tour will complete with your arrival in Rome at approximately 6:00. You will receive Meeting Point information in your Confirmation Voucher.

YOUR TUSCANY TOUR CHAUFFEUR

On this Tuscany post-cruise tour from Civitavecchia, you will be provided with an English-speaking Chauffeur who is not a licensed Tour Guide. Only locally licensed tour guides can guide and accompany guests to sightsee. In order to be in compliance with Italian laws, Chauffeurs are required to remain with the vehicle while you SELF-TOUR.

 ADMISSION TICKETS:

Admission Tickets are required for some places of interest in Pitigliano and Sovana.

Ticket prices are always subject to change and are not guaranteed.
See also the COMBO TICKETS option below.

PITIGLIANO ADMISSION TICKETS

To visit  Little Jerusalem / "La Piccola Gerusalemme":
Admission Tickets: 5  Euros per person
The site is CLOSED on Saturdays, Jewish holidays, and Christmas Day.

To visit the  Museum of Orsini Palace:
Admission Tickets:  5  Euros Per Person

SOVANA ADMISSION TICKETS

To visit the Cathedral of St. Peter in Sovana:
Admission Tickets:  2.50 EURO Per Person
Cathedral of St Peter Openings Hours in the afternoon are 14:30 - 19:00
In January & February, the Cathedral is open only on Saturday and Sunday

** PITIGLIANO AND SOVANA COMBO TICKETS:

1 Combo Ticket valid for Orsini Palace Museum in Pitigliano AND Cathedral of Saint Peter in Sovana is 6 Euros Per Person * (Inquire at the reception of the Orsini Palace Museum)