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Chianciano Terme - At the time of the Etruscans, in the 5th century B.C., there was a temple close to the spring named Sillene, where Chianciano Terme is today.

Dedicated to the god of Good Health, it contained larger bronze statues. Abundant archaeological evidence, recently discovered, goes back as far as the 7th century B.C..

In Roman times, the curative power of its waters had spread Chianciano's fame far and wide. In the first century B.C., Antonio Musa the doctor, suggested them to the poet Horace, who went, drank and was cured. Luxurious villas were built in the area, with thermal baths such as those found at Mezzomiglio and Camerelle. There is little archaeological evidence from the Middle Ages.

The fact, however, that the church of Sillene, built near the remains of an an­cient castle, is dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, a favourite of the Longobards, may signify that it was established by them in the same area as the pagan temple. There is archival evidence of a castrum at Petroio, not far from the Abbey of Saint Peter, no longer extant.

In the 12th and 13th centuries, Chianciano belonged to the Manenti Counts, Lords of Sarteano. Its position close to the Via Francigena (the medieval "highway" to Rome) fostered its development, and Chianciano reached a degree of judicial autonomy when, in 1287, it established it own Statutes. In the 14th century, Orvieto and Siena contended for it, until it was seized by the Siena Republic.

Modern Chianciano Terme developed by exploiting the many springs of therapeutic waters, and by providing visitors with leisure and relaxation in the large Parco Acquasanta.

How to reach Chianciano Terme: From Siena take direction Arezzo on the fast road Siena - Bettolle. At bettolle take the highway A1 and follow direction Rome. Exit Chiusi and Follow indications for Chianciano Terme.

Where is Chianciano Terme: is located in the south of Siena province, in the border with the Umbria region. See the map

Nearby: Chiusi, Montepulciano, Cetona, Sarteano

Distances: Siena 80 Km - Florence 130 Km - Pisa 200 Km - Arezzo 70 Km

Correct name is Chianciano Terme
Common mistakes are Chinciano, Chiangiano, Kianciano, Chiancyano, Term, Termas

A word about Italy

If anyone ever says to you 'hey, let's go to Italy and pick grapes', do it.

There is this really fabulous thing in Italy called AgriTourisma. Briefly: renting out a cottage in the countryside in Tuscany and helping with the harvest. Is that a good time or what?! In the mean time, feel free to book your next stay in Italy at the Hotel Milano in Chianciano Terme. Do say hello to Claudio for me. (Claudio is the food pusher in the dining room who, like any good Italian, won't let you leave until you've had dessert.)
Ciao!