You can witness much evidence of the past here in Cetona since it is one of the oldest settlements in central Italy. The remains of this civilization can be seen in the Archaeological Park Belverde and its 25 primitive caves, which today are artificially lit. The main caves are in the Grotta Lattaia, Grotta di Gosto and Grotta di San Francesco. The archaeological finds are stored in the prehistoric museum on the ground floor of the town Hall.
The circular plan that still today characterizes the town, was founded in Etruscan times. The square tower was built in the 9th century, while the round watchtowers date from the 1500s. Cetona's history is inextricably tied to the conflict between the communes of Siena and Orvieto in the 1200s. The town came under Perugia's domination to become part of the Republic of Siena in 1418. The Republic survived until the mid 1500s when Cetona became part of the Grand Duchy or Tuscany. It was during this period that the family Vitelli rebuilt La Rocca for habitation and brought the large main square, today known as Piazza Garibaldi.
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Besides the family Vitelli's mansion located on the town's main piazza, it is worth visiting the church of Santissima Trinita (from 1475) with its frescoes by Pinturicchio and San Michael's Church (from 1155) with its frescoes made by Sienese artists, including Cola Petruccioli.
Nowadays Cetona is a sought-after residence, attracting many famous personalities from all over Europe. The town has about 3,000 residents and town life has not changed because of tourism. On the contrary, the residents appreciate the old traditions and farming life that has made the town a real gem.
It is an ideal place to stay where you can enjoy pleasant surroundings. From here we recommend excursions to Siena, Montepulciano, Pienza, Lake Trasimeno, Orvieto, etc ..
