Cortona to Colle di Val d’Elsa and Certaldo: Day trip

This charming Italian town and commune in Tuscany is renowned for its production of crystal glassware and art, amounting to 15% of the world’s total production. But long before its industrial sector became what it is today, Colle di Val d’Elsa was rocked by a turbulent past. Due to its position, close to both Florence and Siena, the town has seen several notable conflicts including a famous battle during the wars of the Guelphs and Ghibellines in 1269, and a siege by Neapolitan troops in 1479. The oldest part of the town is the “colle alta”, the higher part, with a well-preserved medieval center. Visitors will enter through the ancient and monumental Porta Nova and following the narrow, winding lanes as they admire the 15th- and 16th-century noble houses and tower houses, making their way to Palazzo Campana, which marks the entry to the oldest part of Colle – the castle.