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Its name is derived from Mons aeris, the copper mountain, synonymous of the strong bond between the town and mining activity. Considered the green heart of southern Tuscany, Montieri owes its history to the wealth of mineral deposits whose mining has moulded a landscape filled with streams, foundries and mines. The land’s minerals were already utilized during the Etruscan period, but it was not until the Populonia rule in the Middle Ages that the use of copper, lead and silver became significant. After being under Populonia rule, Montieri was administrated by Volterra and then in 1341 it was passed on to the City of Siena. In the 13th century a mint was opened in the town and brought much wealth that can still be seen today through the presence of homes with towers that at the time were a symbol of wealth and power. Montieri was included in the Medici Grand Duchy (as were many other towns) in 1554. Located at an altitude of approximately 1051 meters, it is one of the highest elevations of the metal-bearing hills area. The tourist can admire the Castle walls and homes with towers that once belonged to Mazzarocchi and Narducci families and the bell tower of the Church of Saints Paul and Michael. The latter is also the patron saint of Montieri. There is an area behind the church called il Murato, a cell built around the middle of the 13th century for Giacomo Papocchi who was found guilty of having robbed silver from a mine. He remained in his cell for over 46 years and dedicated that period to prayer and penitence. The Fonti di Sotto and Fonti di Sopra water supply network dating back to 1236 is also of interest.
We would like to mention that there is a Chestnut Festival (Sagra della Castagna) that is organised every autumn in Montieri to promote the chestnut that grows abundantly in the area.
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