Chiusi is a town in the Siena province of Tuscany that is beautiful, intriguing and steeped in fascinating local mythology. As a result, there is plenty to see and do, even though the town is not that large. It is the perfect place to have a fun, interesting and exciting holiday off the beaten tourist track and away from lines and bustling crowds. Just find a vacation rental in Chiusi and explore this charming town for yourself.
Between the seventh and fifth centuries BC, Chiusi was one of the most important Etruscan cities. During this period, a legendary kind named Porsenna had his reign and tales of him still echo in the streets to this day. “Why might this be?” you may ask. Oh, just the typical things; elaborate tombs, labyrinths and lost treasure.
Legend tells the story of his extremely convoluted burial and resting place that involved a sarcophagus being transported in a golden carriage guarded by golden statues of twelve horses, a brood hen and five thousand chicks (also made of gold) to a magnificent tomb in an unending labyrinth.
This labyrinth is thought to have once been part of ancient aqueduct system underneath Chiusi that date as far back as 600BC. It is said that, some nights, the hen comes out with a swarm of tiny lights and golden sparkles: the golden hen of Porsenna that takes its chicks into the outside world and around the fields surrounding Chiusi. Another legend says that the treasure remains hidden beneath the city in the crazy maze of tunnels that the Etruscans left behind though the exact burial place has never been found.
Tourists that wish to explore this curious underground world can do so under the guidance of an expert historian who will bring to life the intriguing stories that weave through the town’s history, both above and under the ground. It’s possible to climb back up to ground level through the town’s bell tower.
If you are a treasure-hunter or intrigued by such an elaborate underground world, be sure to visit the town on your next trip to Tuscany!
Legend tells the story of his extremely convoluted burial and resting place that involved a sarcophagus being transported in a golden carriage guarded by golden statues of twelve horses, a brood hen and five thousand chicks (also made of gold) to a magnificent tomb in an unending labyrinth.
This labyrinth is thought to have once been part of ancient aqueduct system underneath Chiusi that date as far back as 600BC. It is said that, some nights, the hen comes out with a swarm of tiny lights and golden sparkles: the golden hen of Porsenna that takes its chicks into the outside world and around the fields surrounding Chiusi. Another legend says that the treasure remains hidden beneath the city in the crazy maze of tunnels that the Etruscans left behind though the exact burial place has never been found.
Tourists that wish to explore this curious underground world can do so under the guidance of an expert historian who will bring to life the intriguing stories that weave through the town’s history, both above and under the ground. It’s possible to climb back up to ground level through the town’s bell tower.
If you are a treasure-hunter or intrigued by such an elaborate underground world, be sure to visit the town on your next trip to Tuscany!
