Centoia I: Via Lauretana, the History of Technology and Wine

Several travel interests come together in Centoia I: the history of the Via Lauretana, historic collections, and a winery offering visits and tastings by reservation. There is also a cycling variant of Stage 34, whose route passes through Centoia. These themes give you different points of reference when choosing where to stay—from ancient routes and technical exhibits to wine and olive oil.

The Via Lauretana: History and Route

The Via Lauretana originated as an Etruscan road. The Romans later used it and developed it with advanced construction techniques. Its historic route ran from Cortona through Camucia and across the plain to Centoia; from there, it continued over hilly terrain to Castello di Valiano. This gives you two ways to understand the route: its long history of use and the sequence of the plain followed by a stretch through the hills. For anyone interested in historic roads, Centoia is therefore part of a specific route, not just a name in the history of the Via Lauretana.

A Cycling Variant with Named Stops

Cyclists can take the variant of Stage 34, “Cortona–Pozzuolo–Castiglione del Lago.” It passes through Ossaia, goes by Riccio, and continues through Pietraia to Centoia; from there, it follows Via della Stella to Petrignano del Lago. Unlike the historical account of the Via Lauretana, this route focuses on a specific sequence of places along the way. This lets you distinguish between two different connections to the area: the Etruscan and Roman origins of the old route and the named itinerary of a cycling stage.

Museum and Scientific Collection

The Museo Ai Borghi in Località Centoia, Cortona, displays 46 exhibits. These include the “Locomobile a vapore Legnago,” the SuperLandini, and the Motomeccanica Balilla. The precise number and named examples give the museum a tangible profile for visitors interested in historical exhibits.

The Istituto Tecnico Agrario Statale “Angelo Vegni” offers another historical perspective. It was founded in 1886 in accordance with the testamentary wishes of Angelo Vegni, who had designated his estate for the establishment of an advanced agricultural school. The institute houses a significant collection of scientific instruments from its physics laboratory. It includes old surveying instruments and physics apparatus used for experiments in the early 20th century. The story of its founding and the collection offer two distinct perspectives: the educational purpose of the time and the instruments used in science lessons.

Wine Tasting and Olive Oil

At IVITI, the offering includes a guided winery tour with wine tasting, paired with typical local products. Tours and tastings are available by reservation only. Listed visiting hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Confirm the hours and reservation before you arrive.

Olive oil is also part of IVITI’s agricultural offering: the winery farms 0.70 hectares with old olive trees to produce extra virgin olive oil. A dated local festival adds to this theme: in 2025, Proloco Centoia organized the “Merenda unta” at a new olive oil festival in Centoia, held in the civic hall.

Discover more destinations: Chitignano, Montevarchi, Le Ville, Fasciano, Pieve Vecchia, Civitella In Val Di Chiana, Falciano, Montebenichi

For the broader travel overview: Arezzo.