What to see in Giglio Castello: 7 places in a village where time seems to have stopped

Giglio Castello is a village where time seems to have stopped, where you can enjoy the atmosphere of an ancient medieval city. A destination that mixes relaxation and culture, the beauty of nature and the sea views. Moreover, it is no coincidence that we are talking about one of the most beautiful places on Giglio Island. Here’s what to see in this authentic historic-architectural gem.

1. Rocca aldobrandesca

It is the symbol of the village. The Rocca aldobrandesca overlooks the town. It is an authentic fortress with a trapezoidal base, built by the Pisani and fortified by the Aldobrandeschi. On clear days, from the walkways of the Rocca aldobrandesca you can see Corsica and Elba Island.

2. Mura perimetrali

The village of Giglio Castello is surrounded by ancient walls dating back to the Middle Ages: they make the atmosphere of the town even more unique. The entrance to Giglio Castello is the Porta della Rocca. In addition to the walls, there are some well-preserved towers.

3. Chiesa di San Pietro

The main and largest church in Giglio Castello and the whole island. The Chiesa di San Pietro, built in the Fifteenth century, preserves some priceless historical and artistic treasures:

• The treasure of Pope Innocent XIII;
• An ivory crucifix made by Giambologna;
• The relics of San Mamiliano, protector of the island and of the Tuscan Archipelago.

4. Quattro rioni

Traditionally, Giglio Castello is divided into four districts: Centro, Cisterna, Casamatta and Rocca. On the occasion of the Feast of San Mamiliano, in September, the four districts challenge each other in the Palio of the donkeys.

5. Alleys and “baschetti”

This is Giglio Castello, a maze of small streets, stairways and “baschetti” (small terraces outside the houses). A walk in these alleys is highly recommended.

6. Food and wine

In the area between Via Vittorio Emanuele and Via Roma, you can find bars, ice cream parlours and, above all, restaurants where you can taste the many things to eat on Giglio Island.

7. Beaches and villages

Getting around Giglio Island is very simple, both by car or by bus service, which connect all the towns of Giglio Island.

In this way, starting from Giglio Castello, you can easily reach:

• The other villages of Giglio Island: Giglio Porto and Giglio Campese;
• The most beautiful beaches on Giglio Island, such as Campese and Caldane.

How to get to the island

Are you ready for your next holiday? Now, you just have to book a seat on one of the ferries to Giglio Island.

• The ferries depart from Porto Santo Stefano, on Argentario, and the journey takes about one hour;
• You can book the tickets on this page, just use our online booking form.

Image source: Wikimedia.org