Etruscian Roads and Sovana

Tuesday, we hiked in the forest around Pitigliano where we found ancient Etruscan roads carved into the rock... it was fascinating to think of these paths being walked upon by many before us... thousands of years ago.

The view from our house in Pitigliano and the general area we hiked... 

Another view across the valley from our small balcony

 Pitigliano as we began our walk down to the valley floor...

 I can't seem to get enough of these interesting doors and alcoves!

  "Walk like an Etruscan..."

Along the way, we found caves dug out of the rock, most likely tombs of the Etruscans, now cellars and storage for gardeners and owners in the area .

 Where are we?

We walked up the side of the Mountain.  

It seems we always end up doing this when we are with Andreas...

 An old highway worn with time...

We walked for several miles with the promise of finding our way to another village known as Sovana.   As we walked, we realized we had no provisions and the day was getting warmer... and lunch time was approaching.  We made the decision to walk to a winery in hopes of a drink of water and a taste of wine and food.  When we arrived, the house was shut for the day... and we were kindly given some water for our journey back to Pitigliano... 

  We made it to the top of the mountain! The view was amazing...

 Pitigliano from across the valley...

 The closed winery...

 Pitigliano... home again!

As we walked back, a little discouraged by our long walk, grumbling and hungry, we were blessed by a friendly Italian farmer who stopped and gave us a ride back to Pitigliano!  We all jammed into his tiny, Opel Corsa, and he happily drove us up the hill.  We bid him thank you and farewell and spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying a lovely lunch and a DRIVE over to the neighboring town of Sovana.  God is good!

 

 The town square of Sovana, a small town just a few kilometers from Pitigliano

 This gives me inspiration for my container gardening!