The Via Francigena
An ancient route that winds through timeless landscapes, medieval villages and places steeped in history. For centuries, the Via Francigena has served as a link between peoples, cultures and traditions, guiding generations of pilgrims towards Rome. In the heart of the Sienese countryside, Agriturismo Novelleto shares a special bond with this ancient route, which runs through the very history of our little village.
A thousand years of history
An ancient place, a witness to countless journeys
The history of Novelleto has its roots in the distant past. According to documents held in the State Archives of Siena, the village already existed around a thousand years ago and was known as “Novelleto alla strada”, a name that reflects its deep connection with the ancient trade routes.
Even today, within the estate, one can still see sections of the ancient cobbled road which bear witness to the passage of travellers and pilgrims through these parts.
We like to imagine Novelleto as a place where people meet and rest, where travellers on the Via Francigena used to share stories, news and experiences gathered along the way. It is a evocative image that lives on in the authentic atmosphere of our farmhouse.
"The women, too, and all the men praised the storytelling"
Giovanni Boccaccio – The Decameron
Nature, history and discovery
A route that winds through the beautiful Sienese countryside
The Via Francigena, also known as the Via Romea, is one of Europe’s most important historic routes. It linked Canterbury to Rome, passing through regions which, over the centuries, have become places where different cultures, traditions and spiritualities have come together.
The stretch of the route that passes through the province of Siena is particularly picturesque: paths winding through the countryside, vineyards, ancient abbeys and medieval villages mark the journey between San Gimignano, Colle di Val d’Elsa, Monteriggioni and Siena.
Today, these routes offer a wonderful opportunity to discover Tuscany at a different pace, on foot or by bike, whilst marvelling at the beauty of the landscape and the charm of its history.
Staying in Novelleto means experiencing this atmosphere at first hand, in a place that still retains an authentic connection with the ancient travellers’ routes.
