Pierle: Rocca, San Biagio and hiking

A trip to Pierle can focus on cultural history, church architecture or hiking. Important points of interest include the Rocca di Pierle, the Church of San Biagio and trails to Monte Ginezzo.

The Rocca di Pierle and its building history

The Rocca di Pierle as it stands today is a ruin. It was built from 1371 onwards over an older structure that had already existed since the 11th century. The two dates mark different phases of construction. The rocky spur on which the Rocca stands overlooks the Mercatale valley and offers an excellent viewpoint. Conservation work was carried out to protect the structure and people. Before visiting, check whether access to the site is possible.

San Biagio: church and feast day

The small Romanesque Church of San Biagio di Pierle stands outside the castle walls; over time, a small village developed around it. The church dates back to the 11th century, was rebuilt in 1505 and further restored in the 17th and 18th centuries. Its architectural features include a gabled roof, a bell gable on the left side and an apse covered with stone slabs. A gabled roof has two sloping sides; the apse forms the rear end of the church interior. The Feast of San Biagio on February 3 is one of the most important celebrations and includes the blessing of bread. The celebration takes place every year; if you are travelling for it, check the current arrangements.

Hikes to Monte Ginezzo and along the Sentiero della Rocca

A hike to Monte Ginezzo described in 2021 starts at the Church of San Biagio, opposite the Rocca di Pierle. It first follows a forest track, then a mule track to the 928-metre summit. From there, views extend to the Apennines, the Sibillini Mountains, Monte Amiata and Lake Trasimeno. Check trail conditions before setting out.

The Sentiero della Rocca runs from Pierle via Monte Maestrino, Monte Ginezzo, Portole and Croce di Sant’Egidio to Sodo, using hiking trails CAI 562, CAI 50 and CAI 563. Highlights along the route include the Rocca di Pierle, a paved road, chestnut groves, the meadows of Ginezzo, the Cerventosa dam and forests dominated mainly by oak trees. The hike to Monte Ginezzo leads to the 928-metre summit; the Sentiero della Rocca connects Pierle with Sodo.

Christmas markets in the 2024 and 2025 programmes

The Municipality of Cortona included Christmas markets at the Rocca di Pierle in its Christmas programmes for 2024 and 2025. If you are planning a Christmas trip, check the dates for the relevant year.

Discover more destinations: Castel San Niccolò, Castiglion Fiorentino, Foiano Della Chiana, Le Ville, Subbiano, Pian Di Sco, Sodo, Montebenichi.

For the main travel overview: Arezzo.