Rome to Gladiator Sites: Private day trip

Pienza underwent a transformation under the guidance of Pope Pius II, growing from the medieval town of Corsignano into a vibrant Renaissance city and eventually a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When Maximus dreams of home in “Gladiator,” Pienza is the idyllic backdrop seen on screen. Visitors can explore the Piazza Pio II, an elegant Renaissance-era square featuring a cathedral, papal palace, and town hall. The palace itself is particularly popular for its hanging garden and stunning views across the surrounding countryside. Verify the palace’s opening hours and entry fees in advance: palazzopiccolominipienza.it

Continue your “Gladiator”- themed excursion with a visit to this nearby medieval village, beloved by photographers for its hilltop location and charming views. This compact village boasts pristine gardens and sculptural Romanesque churches. Here, visitors can enjoy strolling through the main pedestrian streets with far fewer crowds than in the bigger cities. The village is central to the Val d’Orcia, surrounded by the iconic rolling hills and golden fields that are key to the idyllic scenes of Maximus’ home in “Gladiator.”

Visit Bagno Vignoni, a medieval village centered around an ancient Roman thermal bath. Rather than a traditional piazza, visitors will find a large pool of steaming thermal water that has been in use for centuries. A series of ancient stone buildings surrounds the bath, and the steam from its waters lends the village a mystical atmosphere. Those who want to enjoy a soak must head to the thermal park below the village, where swimming in similar steaming pools is free. This site is the perfect way to round out a day spent appreciating the classic Val d’Orcia beauty captured in “Gladiator.”