Villa La Foce
The estate of writer Iris Origo, with an Italian garden designed in the English style and the famous zigzag cypress road just outside.
Villa La Foce lies south of Chianciano Terme, on a hillside overlooking the Val d'Orcia and the Amiata mountains. From the 1920s the estate was run by the English-born writer Iris Origo and her husband, and during the Second World War it sheltered refugee children and partisans. The gardens were designed by the English architect Cecil Pinsent, blending geometric hedges, lemon groves, wisteria pergolas and terraces overlooking the valley. They are considered among the finest Italian gardens of the 20th century. On the slope opposite the estate is the zigzag cypress road, one of the most famous photo spots in the Val d'Orcia, visible from the road near the villa. The garden is open only on timed guided tours, usually a few days a week, so check the official website and book in advance. It is about 15 km from Montepulciano.
Opening hours
Garden guided visits (several days a week; reservation required)
Nearby sights
- Tempio di San Biagio
- Monticchiello
- Montepulciano
- Pienza
- Bagni San Filippo
- Rocca di Radicofani
- Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta
- Bagno Vignoni