Its name derives from the Latin Mons Scutorum, which means "mountain of shields" or "mountain of the squire." The first inhabited nucleus was formed around a monastery of Benedictine nuns, founded in 1091 by Count Gherardo Della Gherardesca... #tuttitaly
In the Val di Cecina stands Montescudaio, a charming fortified village whose name derives from the Latin Mons Scutorum, which means "mountain of shields" or "mountain of squires," emphasizing the defensive importance of the place.
Its history began in 1091 when the monastery of Santa Maria was founded, located in the area still called "la Badia" today. Right next to the monastery, a small fortified village with a castle was built, which served the Counts of Gherardesca, the lords of that territory for centuries.
Tourist attractions
One of the main attractions of Montescudaio is Castle Square, from which, on clear days, you can admire the islands of Gorgona and Capraia and sometimes even the northern tip of Capo Corso.
Near Via del Borgo is the Civic Tower, which dates back to the 12th century and serves as an access point to the medieval castle. Along the castle's perimeter, you can still admire the imposing enclosing walls, up to 15 meters high, which preserve their original masonry in the north and south sections. In particular, the Guardiola, the only remaining watchtower, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
The Poggiarello district is worth a visit, a fascinating place with tiny houses adjacent to each other.
These houses were rebuilt and restored after the earthquake of 1846, and to commemorate that event, a small shrine dedicated to Sant'Antonio was erected at the exit of the main square.
In the district, you can also admire two important civil buildings: Palazzo Ridolfi, dating back to the 17th century, and Palazzo Guerrini, dating back to the 18th century. Both of these buildings belonged to families that played a significant role in the history of Montescudaio. Additionally, the Town Hall, located in this district, was originally the residence of the Cancellieri family, dating back to 1770.
The parish church of the Assumption is another place of interest in Montescudaio. This church was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1846, and inside, you can admire an 18th-century marble statue and a painting depicting the Annunciation, attributed to the Venetian school of the 17th century.
Gastronomy
The Tuscan bread of Montescudaio is the main ingredient in numerous traditional dishes, such as spleen and liver crostini, ribollita, tomato soup, bread and bean or chickpea soup, and the famous "zuppa lombarda" rich in vegetables.
The municipality is part of the national associations Città del Vino (City of Wine), Città del Pane (City of Bread), and Città dell'Olio (City of Oil), testifying to the importance of the food and wine tradition in the area.
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