During 14-days in Italy, I visited cultural gems including Florence, Venice, Cinque Terre, Positano, Fiesole, and even my heritage hometown in Campagnia. But Cortona was a pilgrimage because it’s the inspiration behind the book and movie, “Under the Tuscan Sun.” Once you arrive, it’s easy to see why.
Cortona, Italy is a Tuscan hill town with a history as rich as its fertile soil. Ancient roots boast Umbrian, Etruscan, and Roman cultures dating as far back as the 7th Century B.C.
History and architecture buffs will enjoy the many churches and Etruscan ruins, and foodies won’t be disappointed by the authentic Tuscan cuisine and regional wines.
The journey up the hillside toward Cortona is magnificent, offering sweeping views of the Valdichiana–the fertile valley–below. I can see how this vantage point would guard against invasions in medieval times!Moss and earthy growth add texture to the terra-cotta tiles of a villa perched on Cortona’s rolling hillside. It’s classic Tuscany.The streets of Cortona surrounding the Piazza della Repubblica offer quaint little shops, some family run for generations. You’ll find artisan papers and gifts, handmade dresses, Italian leather (oh, the leather!), jewelry, wines, and more to take home as regional souvenirs.Cheerful sunflowers draw you into the intimate courtyard of Trattoria La Grotta. Locals recommend it for a taste of authentic Tuscan cuisine. Break for lunch or opt for a romantic evening of courtyard dining. Delizioso! (Indoor accommodations also available. Reservations recommended either way.)What’s better than exploring? I wonder where these ancient steps lead. (This is how I get myself in trouble.) Hey, I’m walking off a great Italian meal…!Just a little window shopping in Cortona, Italy. Handmade papers, fountain pens, inks, leather notebooks. It’s a writer’s dream!
History Meets Flavor in Cortona, Italy
The centuries-old center of Cortona is the Piazza della Repubblica, which dates back to Roman times. It continues as a central meeting place within this Tuscan community today.How does it get better than this? Fresh made Spaghetti Bolognese for lunch in Tuscany. I’m in heaven at Caffe degli Artisti – Cortona, Italy.The 13th Century town hall and clock tower preside over Cortona’s Piazza della Repubblica. A Latin inscription with biblical origins above the door reads PAX HVIC DOMVI. Translation: “Peace Be to this House.” Words to live by, I’d say!Ok, I admit it. I have a cappuccino problem.😍☕
I enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the WWI Memorial park (Parterre) in Cortona, which features a lovely fountain at its center of nymphs and sea creatures. (This is not the one featured in the movie “Under the Tuscan Sun,” a set prop placed in Piazza Signorelli.)Look at this pure indulgence at Pasticceria Banchelli. How could I not?Peter Capucci of Tiferno (b. 1390, d.1445) rest on the central altar of San Domenico, a small but beautiful medieval church in Cortona. A longtime priest known for patience and humility, he is attributed with performing miracles. Pope Pius VII beautified Peter in 1816.
The Road to Bramasole
I came to Cortona on a bit of a pilgrimage, wanting to see scenes from “Under the Tuscan Sun” because 1) it’s so beautiful and 2) the movie’s messages were personally meaningful. The story takes place at a villa named “Bramasole,” which loosely translates to “I yearn for the sun.” (Anyone who knows me knows this defines me!) So, I embarked upon the cypress-lined path that ascended to the highpoint of my visit: a glimpse of Bramasole.With each turn of the road in Cortona toward Bramasole, I enjoyed incredible panoramics of the Tuscan countryside. Imagine living here, perched on the edge of the hillside? What views!!I can easily see how Cortona inspired writer Frances Mayes to take up residence to write the book, “Under the Tuscan Sun.” (Read my book review here.) It’s an enchanting town, steeped in Etruscan and Roman history, Italian Culture, and nestled within the Tuscan hills. From here, you can see Lake Trasimeno in Perugia (Umbria) and beyond. Can you see that bright spot in the center of the horizon? Even on this hazy day, Trasimeno is visible.
And There It Is!
Uncertain of my bearings and direction, I walked along Localita Torreone for a long while in search of Bramasole. Dusk was falling, and the air was damp with mist. I thought to myself, what have I done — lost out here by myself, in a foreign country speaking little Italian, tired, and on a deserted road to possibly nowhere? And then I saw it. Bramasole rose before me, dressed in gorgeous Tuscan hues, just as I’d long imagined. This villa was the “real” Bramasole Frances Mayes wrote about in her book “Under the Tuscan Sun.” I savored the moment, relishing the tremendous success of a fellow writer and Italophile, and the story of a woman who found happiness after life threw her a few curve balls. I pinched myself and mentally checked Bramasole off my bucket list. (“Villa Laura,” the home filmed in the movie, is also in Cortona.)“Every day, I watch for the old man with the flowers, and I wonder, was he born here? Did he love someone here? Did he lose someone here?” – Frances Mayes, “Under the Tuscan Sun” (film)I collected a spray of wildflowers along the path to Bramasole, leaving behind the token of gratitude at the little shrine in Cortona, Italy.“Life offers you a thousand chances… all you have to do is take one.” (Frances Mayes, Under the Tuscan Sun) I took one last look up at the balcony of Bramasole before heading back to town in Cortona. I couldn’t be happier about my off-the-beaten-path pilgrimage or the opportunity to experience a bit of the inspiration behind “Under the Tuscan Sun” by Frances Mayes. So long, Cortona!
Going to Cortona was a dream come true for me. When the opportunity presented itself, I jumped without hesitations. Where have you always wanted to go, given the chance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Jackie Gately is a seasoned travel writer, photographer, and marketing consultant who is passionate about travel. She loves casual-luxury experiences, coastal getaways, cultural attractions, and local, wholesome food and wine pairings. A perfect day ends with her toes in the sand or by chasing the sunset with her camera--ideally both.
Having read and loved ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ book, I can see why you were fascinated with this town. It looks gorgeous, hope to visit this gorgeous place someday. Thanks for sharing all the lovely pictures and giving us a virtual tour!
I want to go to Italy so badly! I don’t even care which city, just someone take me to Italy, please! LOL I love the culture and I’m studying the language now.
I haven’t actually seen the movie under the Tuscan sun, but I do have it on DVD (just never got round to watching it lol). But seeing all these beautiful pictures, maybe I should watch it soon – such a photogenic place! X
You are totally making me want to go to Cortona. I would love to wander around the town and I think I would enjoy making the trip in the sun-drenched summer. Now, to start saving up!
I have no idea how many times I thought “wow!” to myself whilst looking through your photos. Even the spaghetti looks wowingly delicious! Also love the Mayes quote you’ve included. Definitely adding this to my bucket list!
Oh my goodness!! Thank you for sharing this. That was such a good, romantic movie, and it made me fall in love with Tuscany. It’s so lovely, and I enjoyed the photos! 🙂
I couldn’t agree more, Alexander. Italy has so much to offer! I hope you get the chance to check out Cortona next time you visit. There is a lot more than I show here, particularly in terms of cathedrals and Etruscan history.
These photos are incredible! Italy has been on my bucket list ever since I was a little girl. I love pasta and all Italian food. I would love to go and experience everything the country has to offer.
I’m not familiar with ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ but I can understand why it was based on Cortona. I’m in between Italy and London, but yet to see this lovely town in Tuscany. Maybe the next time I’m back, I’ll visit.
I’ve never been to Italy, but there’s something about the small, paved streets that looks inviting. This area has much to see. I’d like to book a trip for my husband and me someday.
Cortona is just one of many enchanting Italian hilltowns; they are each so charming, as you say! I hope you and your husband have an opportunity to explore one or more in the future. It’s a truly memorable experience!
I feel like I’m in the lovely past of Europe, seeing this magnificent pictures of modern buildings and trees, a monumental fountain and roads that tell stories just by walking on them. I am now a real fan of this place. Cortona, where have you been all my life?!
What a gorgeous place to visit! I love strolling through European cities on foot and it seems like Cortona has a lot to offer in terms of window shopping and good food!
When I think about the places I want to visit in Italy, the Tuscan countryside is always high on my bucket list. I want to avoid the touristy places and see the places that resonate with my soul when I look at photos like these.
Wow, that’s quite an adventure and a surreal experience! I’ve been wanting to visit Japan for the longest time, and hopefully this dream will come to reality next year. 🙂
If you get the chance to visit Italy again, Tuscany will not disappoint you. The food is just one of many things that are beyond words. Fabulous region!
Thanks, Nicole! I loved the movie, too…so inspiring and uplifting. It truly was a dream to be standing in many of the same places in which the movie was filmed and to see Bramasole in person. Hope you experience it for yourself someday, too!
Yay! I went there for the first time last September and fell in love with Cortona, such a cute village!
Oh, I’m so happy to find someone who has also been there and enjoyed it as much!
Having read and loved ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ book, I can see why you were fascinated with this town. It looks gorgeous, hope to visit this gorgeous place someday. Thanks for sharing all the lovely pictures and giving us a virtual tour!
I’m glad you enjoyed the book and my photos, Suma!
What an absolute dreamy location! Your photos really capture the beauty of Cortona. The places look rich in history with an authentic Italian vibe.
You got that right, Kelly! (Thanks for appreciating my photography, too!)
I want to go to Italy so badly! I don’t even care which city, just someone take me to Italy, please! LOL I love the culture and I’m studying the language now.
I hope you get there, Lisa! My fingers are crossed for you!
I haven’t actually seen the movie under the Tuscan sun, but I do have it on DVD (just never got round to watching it lol). But seeing all these beautiful pictures, maybe I should watch it soon – such a photogenic place! X
Under the Tuscan Sun was a personally meaningful movie for me. No doubt, you’ll enjoy the scenery anyway, Becca!
You are totally making me want to go to Cortona. I would love to wander around the town and I think I would enjoy making the trip in the sun-drenched summer. Now, to start saving up!
That’s the right attitude, Nancy! Throw all that change in the piggy-bank…it adds up quickly! Summer in Cortona…ahhhh.
such a beautiful place..i would love to go to cortona…i missed it on my first visit..i luv ur photos..brilliant photography…
Thank you, Ritika! I’m glad you enjoyed my photos. Hope you get back to see Cortona sometime.
I have no idea how many times I thought “wow!” to myself whilst looking through your photos. Even the spaghetti looks wowingly delicious! Also love the Mayes quote you’ve included. Definitely adding this to my bucket list!
I so appreciate your kind words, Jas! Glad to contribute to your bucket list. Mine is a mile long…LOL
Oh my goodness!! Thank you for sharing this. That was such a good, romantic movie, and it made me fall in love with Tuscany. It’s so lovely, and I enjoyed the photos! 🙂
I felt the same way about the movie, Jennifer. It was such a thrill to experience Cortona with it in mind. I’m glad you enjoyed seeing the photos.
You can never stop exploring Italy! There is so much thingsto see! I have been to many cities, but you have shown me something new.
I couldn’t agree more, Alexander. Italy has so much to offer! I hope you get the chance to check out Cortona next time you visit. There is a lot more than I show here, particularly in terms of cathedrals and Etruscan history.
These photos are incredible! Italy has been on my bucket list ever since I was a little girl. I love pasta and all Italian food. I would love to go and experience everything the country has to offer.
You won’t be disappointed, Bianca! Thanks for appreciating my photos.
I’m not familiar with ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ but I can understand why it was based on Cortona. I’m in between Italy and London, but yet to see this lovely town in Tuscany. Maybe the next time I’m back, I’ll visit.
I hope you get the chance to visit. Check out the book or movie in the meantime, if you are interested. I really enjoyed both.
I’ve never been to Italy, but there’s something about the small, paved streets that looks inviting. This area has much to see. I’d like to book a trip for my husband and me someday.
Cortona is just one of many enchanting Italian hilltowns; they are each so charming, as you say! I hope you and your husband have an opportunity to explore one or more in the future. It’s a truly memorable experience!
Wow, wow and wow again. You make me want to leave this computer and be on the next flight to this location…..sigh
Thank you, Mardene! I feel exactly the same way. I’d jump on a plane for a return trip in a heartbeat. LOL
I feel like I’m in the lovely past of Europe, seeing this magnificent pictures of modern buildings and trees, a monumental fountain and roads that tell stories just by walking on them. I am now a real fan of this place. Cortona, where have you been all my life?!
Yes!
We visited Italy over ten years ago, but this post makes us want to visit Cortona soon. Your pictures and review are great. Thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed this! Thanks for the kind words…
Looks so pretty. Definitely a lot of culture here
Agreed!
What a gorgeous place to visit! I love strolling through European cities on foot and it seems like Cortona has a lot to offer in terms of window shopping and good food!
It certainly does, Ann! We share a love of foot-travel. I discover some of the best-hidden gems that way.
When I think about the places I want to visit in Italy, the Tuscan countryside is always high on my bucket list. I want to avoid the touristy places and see the places that resonate with my soul when I look at photos like these.
Exactly!
I have ALWAYS wanted to visit Italy! What an amazing trip you had! Beautiful pictures! You definitely made me want to go more than ever now!
Thank you, Jen! It truly was amazing. It makes me all the happier to know that my photos may inspire others to visit. 🙂
It looks like an amazing place. I am glad you got to visit and live one of your dreams in reality.
Thank you!
Wow! Looks amazing, I’m just planing my trip to Italy and this hepled me a lot. Thanks for sharing this! 🙂
I’m so glad it was helpful!
How beautiful, the architecture is amazing… I would love to travel more… It would be amazing to see more! I think the sunflowers are my favorite! 🙂
I hope you do get to travel more, Ashley! (I loved the sunflowers, too. So cheery!)
wow what a beautiful place to explore. I would really enjoy visiting Cortona. Your photos are so gorgeous.
Thank you so much, Kelly! Hope you get the chance to visit Cortona. It’s such a wonderful experience.
Wow, that’s quite an adventure and a surreal experience! I’ve been wanting to visit Japan for the longest time, and hopefully this dream will come to reality next year. 🙂
“Surreal” is an excellent description of my experience, Czjai! I am hopeful you will get to your dream destination of Japan, as well!
I’ve been to loads of places in Italy, but never Tuscany. You’ve really inspired me to visit – the food sounds delish!
If you get the chance to visit Italy again, Tuscany will not disappoint you. The food is just one of many things that are beyond words. Fabulous region!
You captured the beauty really great. I can feel the rich history of Cortona.
I’m so glad that came across, Luci! Thanks for the compliment. 😉
I loved the movie Under the Tuscan Sun! These pictures are amazing, to be able to visit such a place someday would be like a dream.
Thanks, Nicole! I loved the movie, too…so inspiring and uplifting. It truly was a dream to be standing in many of the same places in which the movie was filmed and to see Bramasole in person. Hope you experience it for yourself someday, too!
Wonderful captions and good post! I have never watched that movie though it gets played a lot!
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed my post.