Chiusi is a city in the Val di Chiana region of Tuscany, Italy. It was one of the twelve cities of the Etruscan League. In 391 BC it was besieged by the Gauls, which led to its decline as an Etruscan center. It later became a Roman province, and in 89 BC its people were given Roman citizenship. In the Middle Ages the city declined, in part because of its support for Siena in its battles with Florence. Today, however, it is a flourishing town, with excellent communications.
- National Archaeological Museum, Via Porsenna, 93 (to the east of the town, +39 0578 20177. 09.00-20.00. Chiusi was a major Etruscan center and this museum has numerous Etruscan artifacts (many urns!), many of which display the Greek influence on the Etruscans. A nice way to spend twenty minutes. €4 with usual reductions.
- The Labyrinth. Etruscan tunnels, probably used for water supply and drainage. These are quite extensive and run under the city. Guided tours start from the Cathedral. Entry Fee.
- San Secondiano Cathedral. The cathedral is the oldest in all of Tuscany (6th Century), although the architecture is predominantly Romanesque. A small museum next door has a few beautiful choir books. The bell tower outside is of medieval construction.
National Archaeological Museum, Via Porsenna, 93 (to the east of the town, +39 0578 20177. 09.00-20.00. Chiusi was a major Etruscan center and this museum has numerous Etruscan artifacts (many urns!), many of which display the Greek influence on the Etruscans. A nice way to spend twenty minutes. €4 with usual reductions.
The Labyrinth. Etruscan tunnels, probably used for water supply and drainage. These are quite extensive and run under the city. Guided tours start from the Cathedral. Entry Fee.
San Secondiano Cathedral. The cathedral is the oldest in all of Tuscany (6th Century), although the architecture is predominantly Romanesque. A small museum next door has a few beautiful choir books. The bell tower outside is of medieval construction.
The hilltop portion of Chiusi (around Via Porsenna) is a quaint but somewhat sleepy town. Stores seem to have short opening hours. On Wednesdays, all fruit, grocery and delicatessen shops seem to be closed for the entire day.
- La Solita Zuppa. Via Porsena 21. Moderately expensive, but one of the best dining experiences in Southern Tuscany. The Cinghiale in salmi is particularly good but ask the owner (he is almost always there) for a recommendation.
- Zaira. Via Arunte 12. Advertised as Etruscan Cuisine, Zaira is good value for hearty fare. Children welcome.
La Solita Zuppa. Via Porsena 21. Moderately expensive, but one of the best dining experiences in Southern Tuscany. The Cinghiale in salmi is particularly good but ask the owner (he is almost always there) for a recommendation.
Zaira. Via Arunte 12. Advertised as Etruscan Cuisine, Zaira is good value for hearty fare. Children welcome.
- Cetona - is a medieval village just southwest of Chiusi after you cross the A1 Autostrada.
- Montepulciano - is a hilltop town located north of Chiusi. There is bus service from Chiusi. See Tuscany#Get_around for info.