The road of the Chiantigiana which connects Strada in Chianti to Greve is an open stretch of countryside, a part of the Florentine Chianti where the lowland blends with gentle harshness. In this short stretch, are situated some of the most important ancient fortresses of the entire territory. The castle of Vicchiomaggio which probably originally belonged to a Longobard noble family unto the 12th century, was surrounded by a large circle of battlements but, like many other similar structures, has undergone destruction and reconstruction in the course of the centuries. Indeed, in some parts it reminds us of an authentic medieval castle, while in other parts, neo-Gothic features can be observed. Some very fine Chianti Classico wines are produced in this area and there exists a specific form of agricultural tourism for those in search of the atmosphere of castles. A hundred meters further on, another gigantic stone building draws the visitor’s attention. To reach the entrance, it is necessary to cross a dirt road. All around, vast ‘vineyards’ show the wine producing vocation of the castle. It is the castle of Verrazzano, dating back to the 10th-11th centuries, situated in a place where there had been an Etruscan settlement many years before. In 1485, the famous explorer and navigator Giovanni da Verrazzano who discovered the Hudson bay, was born here. In this case too, only a few ruins of the old fortress have survived, considering that the most important part of the architectural complex is reminiscent of the forms of a noble Florentine villa begun in 1600 and concluded in later periods. Here too, excellent wines are produced which are accompanied by a refined hospitality.
If we proceed towards Greve, it is a must to stop in one of the most fascinating buildings of the Chianti, Villa Calcinaia, a fine example of 16th century building in the Florentine countryside. The villa has a long, low facade with a sober plan and simple lines. In front of the entrance is a beautiful Italian garden. The earls Capponi, owners of the building since 1524, transformed the pre-existing building into the present one, creating its present day activity. This activity has always been based on wine production which has been recently improved thanks to an accurate selection of the grapes. The Riserva Villa Calcinaia is a wine for highly sophisticated palates. Before entering Greve, a road sign leads us to the Castle of Uzzano. A solid ring of walls reminding us of the original fortified complex surrounds an elegant 15th century villa with its facade marked by the columns of a noble loggia. The vast Italian garden extending from the rear facade is noteworthy. A few small ancient buildings used for tourist facilities face a charming courtyard.
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See also:

Etruscans: The Origins, Suddenly, A Roman Bridge, Echoes of the Benedictines

or go back to The Origins of Chianti: The Journey Begins