Casole  d'Elsa​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 29 November 2023
The town of Casole d'Elsa is situated within the Province of Siena and stands at an elevation of 417 metres above sea level. It has a population of around 4,000 inhabitants.

Places of interest nearby include Colle di Val d'Elsa, Monteriggioni, San Gimignano and Siena while the recommended accommodation is the Belmond Castello di Casole. ​
Casole d'Elsa has been included in the list of Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag) towns since 2003 and among its main sights is the Chiesa di San Niccolò: a Romanesque church that dates back to the 14th century. 
Related links
Profile
Casole d'Elsa is a small and charming hilltop village located in the province of Siena, in the region of Tuscany, Italy. Situated atop a hill overlooking the beautiful Elsa Valley, the village is known for its medieval atmosphere, historic architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views. 
History
Casole d'Elsa has ancient origins, dating back to Etruscan and Roman times when the area was settled due to its strategic location along trade routes. During the medieval period, the village developed as a fortified center under the rule of various noble families, including the Bishop of Volterra and the Republic of Siena.

The village's historical center retains much of its medieval character, with narrow streets, stone houses, and ancient walls. Over the centuries, Casole d'Elsa has been a witness to regional conflicts and cultural exchange, leaving behind a rich historical heritage.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Historical Centre: Wander through the charming historical centre of Casole d'Elsa, where you can admire medieval architecture, the town's clock tower, and quaint squares.
  • San Nicola Church: Visit the Church of San Nicola, a beautiful Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century, which houses valuable religious artworks.
  • Palazzo Pretorio: Explore Palazzo Pretorio, a historic mansion that once served as the seat of local authorities and now houses the town's civic museum.
  • Val d'Elsa Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Elsa Valley and the surrounding countryside from various vantage points within the village.
  • Tuscan Cuisine: Savour traditional Tuscan dishes in Casole d'Elsa's restaurants, which offer a delightful array of regional specialties and local wines.
  • Festivals and Events: Check for local festivals and events that take place throughout the year, offering a glimpse into the village's cultural traditions.
  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the scenic trails surrounding Casole d'Elsa, offering opportunities for leisurely walks and nature hikes.
Comune di Casole d'Elsa
Province: Siena

Region: Tuscany

​Population: 3,720​ ​(source: ISTAT 1 January 2022)

Size: 149 km²

Elevation: 417 metres

Highlights: Chiesa di San Niccolò, views of local countryside

​Close by: Colle di Val d'Elsa, Monteriggioni, San Gimignano, Siena

Recommended accommodation: Belmond Castello di Casole
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)

Listed since: 2003

1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano

Casole  d'Elsa​​  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via my Italy Review Blog for which you'll find links below to the Facebook and Twitter pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.