Buonconvento
Buonconvento is a charming and historic town located in the heart of Tuscany, in the province of Siena. Surrounded by rolling hills, ancient vineyards, and olive groves, Buonconvento is the perfect destination for those seeking a taste of authentic Tuscan life.
The town itself is full of narrow, winding streets and charming medieval buildings, many of which have been beautifully preserved and renovated. Visitors can explore the town's ancient walls and gates, visit the Church of Santa Maria, or browse the local artisanal shops and markets.
Just outside of Buonconvento, the landscape becomes even more breathtaking, with sprawling vineyards, olive groves, and fields of sunflowers stretching as far as the eye can see. The nearby town of Montalcino is home to some of the finest wine estates in the region, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Whether you're looking to relax in the tranquil surroundings of the Tuscan countryside or explore the rich history and culture of the region, Buonconvento is the perfect place to start.
History (storia)
The name Buonconvento, which means "happy place," appears in historical records dating back to around 1100. Located in a strategic valley, Buonconvento became a vital trade center in the region. In 1371, construction began on the walls that would surround the village, and the project was completed 12 years later. These walls, which still stand today, helped to protect the village and its residents. According to the website Visit Tuscany, Buonconvento is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Shopping (fare le spese)
On Saturdays, you can visit a local market on the square outside the village walls of Buonconvento. This is a great place to buy fresh produce, meat, and fish. If you need to pick up some everyday groceries, you can go to the Coop, which is located just over the bridge on the left as you drive from the podere towards the village. Alternatively, you can visit the Consorzio Agrario di Siena Negozio Alimentari or the local butcher, Carni di Orlandini, in the main street. For bread, cheese, and salami, stop by Ornalla's shop, "non solo formaggio.
In the main street, you'll also find Pianigiani, a shop that designs, produces, and sells high-quality leather bags, shoes, and accessories. Like an Italian, take some time to sit and enjoy a cappuccino at Sosta, a bar in the main street. From the terrace, you can watch the village go about its daily business.
Dining out (cenare)
Porta di Sotto. Located at the corner of the main street, Porta di Sotto is a charming restaurant that is well worth a visit. One of the standout features of this restaurant is its menu, which offers a bit of a departure from the traditional dishes you might find at other restaurants in Tuscany. If you're looking for something a little more experimental, Porto di Sotto is definitely worth checking out.
Antiche Mura. Located on the square outside the old village wall, Antiche Mura is a popular restaurant in Buonconvento. The restaurant is known for its delicious Italian cuisine, and the talented chef, Ciro, has even prepared a meal for President Obama during his visit to the village in 2016. In addition to its tasty food, Antiche Mura is also a great place to enjoy live music during the summer months.
Mulinum. At a 5 minute walk from the Podere, you will find Mulinum: a brand new bio-sustainable farmhouse and bakery that was opened in 2022. They produce flour from local grains and sell their own bread, crackers, pasta, biscuits and pizza. Besides that they offer a variety of cheeses, snacks and wines. At night, you can eat or order pizza at the Mulinum.
Da Mario. Located in the main street, Da Mario is a simple yet honest Italian restaurant that serves delicious Tuscan cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and the casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. In the summer months, the restaurant opens a cool terrace at the back of the building, providing a lovely outdoor dining option.
Il Cantuccio. Il Cantuccio, which means "cozy corner" in Italian, is a popular wine bar and meeting place for young Italians in Buonconvento. The staff at Il Cantuccio are fluent in English and are known for their expertly crafted Gin Tonics. In addition to drinks, the bar also offers a lovely menu of small bites and snacks.
The Harvest Party (la Sagra della Valdarbia)
September is a special time in the Tuscany region of Italy, as it marks the start of the grape harvest season. To celebrate this important event, the village of Buonconvento throws a week-long party. During this time, long tables are set up in the streets every night, providing a festive atmosphere for residents and visitors alike to come together and enjoy the local delicacies. The grape harvest is an important part of the village's history and culture, and the celebration is a beloved tradition that brings the community together. If you happen to be in Buonconvento during the grape harvest season, be sure to join in the fun and experience this unique celebration for yourself.