Piazza Pio II Pienza
Pienza's Piazza Pio II is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a perfectly preserved Renaissance 'ideal city' square with stunning architecture and panoramic...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Piazza Pio II Pienza
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Pienza's Piazza Pio II is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a perfectly preserved Renaissance 'ideal city' square with stunning architecture and panoramic Tuscan views.
"Strolling through this charming square feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting."
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the crowds by visiting Piazza Pio II in the early morning for a peaceful experience and better photos.
🧀 Taste the Local Pecorino
Don't leave without trying Pienza's famous Pecorino cheese! Many shops offer tastings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pienza Cathedral (Duomo)
Piazza Pio II
A stunning Renaissance cathedral, the centerpiece of the 'ideal city' with a harmonious facade and beautiful interior.
Palazzo Piccolomini
Piazza Pio II
Pope Pius II's former residence, featuring a breathtaking Renaissance courtyard and a roof garden with panoramic valley views.
The 'Gladiator' Field
Via del Gladiatore (Strada del Gladiatore)
Iconic rolling hills and cypress trees, famously featured in the movie 'Gladiator'. A must-see for film buffs and photographers.
Pecorino Cheese Tasting
Various shops and dairies in Pienza
Indulge in Pienza's world-renowned Pecorino cheese, a local delicacy with diverse flavors and aging processes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Renaissance Ideal
Beyond the Square
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the crowds by visiting Piazza Pio II in the early morning for a peaceful experience and better photos. 
🧀 Taste the Local Pecorino
Don't leave without trying Pienza's famous Pecorino cheese! Many shops offer tastings.
📸 Capture the 'Gladiator' Views
Head to Via del Gladiatore for those iconic rolling hills and cypress trees seen in the movie. +2
🚶♀️ Wander the Renaissance Streets
Explore the charming streets beyond the main piazza for hidden gems and local life.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the crowds by visiting Piazza Pio II in the early morning for a peaceful experience and better photos.
🧀 Taste the Local Pecorino
Don't leave without trying Pienza's famous Pecorino cheese! Many shops offer tastings.
📸 Capture the 'Gladiator' Views
Head to Via del Gladiatore for those iconic rolling hills and cypress trees seen in the movie. +2
🚶♀️ Wander the Renaissance Streets
Explore the charming streets beyond the main piazza for hidden gems and local life.
🏛️ Visit Palazzo Piccolomini Garden
Enjoy breathtaking Val d'Orcia views from the historic roof garden.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Piazza Pio II for its stunning Renaissance architecture and its role as the heart of Pienza's 'ideal city' design. The harmonious buildings, including the Cathedral and Palazzo Piccolomini, are highlighted as major attractions, offering a glimpse into historical urban planning. Many also appreciate the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to experience local culture, particularly the famous Pecorino cheese.
"This is a gorgeous plaza that has plenty of space, fitting perfectly with a small town like Pienza. We were lucky enough to visit during the town's cheese weekend, which had many activities for both children and adults. Located right in front of the main cathedral, it's definitely one of Pienza's most notable landmarks."
Flo Yeow
"Great atmosphere with a nice coffee shop and the crypt with a small underground labyrinth which is very cool for kids to explore. They had a good time."
Rodrigo Lopez
"May 2025. Nice little plaza anchored by Pienza Cathedral (whose Google maps entry seems to be gone)"
Patrick Villacorta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pienza is accessible by car, with parking available outside the historic center. Alternatively, you can take a bus from nearby towns like Siena or Florence. From the parking areas, it's a pleasant walk into the town center and Piazza Pio II.
Yes, Pienza is about a 2-hour drive from Florence. You can also take a train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme and then a bus to Pienza.
Pienza is best explored on foot. The historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for leisurely strolls.
Yes, there are several paid parking lots located just outside the ZTL (limited traffic zone) of Pienza's historic center. From there, it's a short walk to the piazza.
Absolutely! Pienza makes for a wonderful day trip from Florence or Siena, allowing you to experience its Renaissance charm and stunning landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Piazza Pio II itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, there are admission fees for specific buildings like Palazzo Piccolomini and the Cathedral museum.
Palazzo Piccolomini typically opens around 10 AM and closes in the late afternoon, with variations depending on the season. It's best to check the official website for the most current hours.
While the main church is often accessible, there might be a small fee for visiting the Cathedral museum or specific areas. Check locally for current pricing.
Yes, Pienza hosts various events throughout the year, including cheese festivals and historical reenactments. Check local listings for 'Pienza e i fiori' or 'Cena delle Contrade'.
For Palazzo Piccolomini and the Cathedral museum, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
📸 📸 Photography
Piazza Pio II offers stunning architectural shots. For iconic landscape photos, head to Via del Gladiatore for the 'Gladiator' cypress trees and rolling hills.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the warm Tuscan glow.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historic centers and national parks. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the piazza's architecture and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant views of the Val d'Orcia.
Photography is usually permitted in public areas of Palazzo Piccolomini, but check for any specific restrictions, especially in the roof garden or private rooms.
🍽️ 🧀 Food & Dining
Pienza is most famous for its Pecorino cheese, which comes in various ages and flavors. You'll also find delicious Tuscan specialties like pici pasta and wild boar.
Numerous 'caseifici' (cheese shops) and delis in Pienza offer Pecorino cheese. Many provide tasting platters.
While there are cafes and restaurants around the piazza, some of the best dining experiences might be found on the side streets, offering a more local feel.
Look for trattorias and osterias serving traditional Tuscan cuisine. Baccano is a popular spot mentioned for its local dishes and wine.
Yes, buying local Pecorino cheese, bread, and wine for a picnic with views of the Val d'Orcia is a fantastic experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for local events like the 'Pienza e i fiori' festival or the 'Cena delle Contrade' which often have activities that can entertain younger visitors.
+1 Trying the famous Pecorino cheese can also be a fun culinary adventure for the whole family. Consider a picnic with local products in the scenic countryside surrounding Pienza for a memorable family outing. 📸 Photographers' Paradise
+2For iconic landscape shots, make your way to Via del Gladiatore to photograph the famous cypress-lined roads and rolling hills that gained fame from 'Gladiator.'
🎬 Film Buffs & Movie Location Hunters
Beyond 'Gladiator,' Pienza's picturesque setting has also been featured in other films, such as 'The English Patient.'
Exploring these locations provides a unique way to experience the history and beauty of the region through the lens of cinema. It's a chance to walk through movie history and capture your own cinematic moments. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Renaissance Ideal: Pienza's Urban Design
+2This meticulous design aimed to create a visually pleasing and spiritually uplifting environment. The buildings framing the piazza—the Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, Palazzo Comunale, and Palazzo Borgia—were conceived as a unified architectural ensemble. This approach was revolutionary for its time, moving away from the more organic growth of medieval towns towards a planned, rational urban landscape. Visiting Piazza Pio II offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the tangible results of these ambitious Renaissance aspirations.
+1The 'ideal city' concept extended beyond aesthetics. Pius II intended Pienza to be a place of civic pride and spiritual renewal. The harmonious design was meant to foster a sense of community and well-being among its inhabitants. Today, the piazza continues to embody this spirit, offering a serene and beautiful space that invites contemplation and appreciation of its historical and architectural significance.
+1Pienza and the Silver Screen: The 'Gladiator' Connection
The specific location often referred to as the 'Gladiator field' is found along the Strada del Gladiatore (Via del Gladiatore). This picturesque route offers the quintessential Tuscan landscape that captivated audiences worldwide. Visiting this spot allows you to recreate those cinematic moments and feel the vastness and tranquility of the Val d'Orcia countryside, just as Russell Crowe did during filming.
Beyond 'Gladiator,' the unique beauty of Pienza and its surroundings has made it a sought-after filming location for other productions, including 'The English Patient.' The timeless quality of the landscape, combined with the Renaissance architecture of the town, creates a magical atmosphere that filmmakers and visitors alike find irresistible.
A Taste of Pienza: The Art of Pecorino
Exploring Pienza means embarking on a delicious journey through its cheese shops and dairies. Many establishments offer tasting experiences, allowing you to sample different varieties and learn about their production. It's a fantastic opportunity to discover your favorite Pecorino and perhaps even purchase some to take home.
Beyond Pecorino, Pienza offers a delightful array of Tuscan culinary delights. Local trattorias and restaurants serve traditional dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Don't miss out on regional specialties like pici pasta, wild boar dishes, and, of course, the excellent local wines, including Brunello from nearby Montalcino.
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