Chiusi

Chiusi's origins date back to the first millennium before Christ. In the 6th century B.C. Clevsin or Chamars (Chiusi's Etruscan names) was one of the 12 most im­portant cities in the Etruscan federation, and under King Porsenna Chiusi reached its peak when the Etruscans fought and defeated the Romans.

In the National Archaeological Museum it is possible to admire the marvels of this Etruscan city in its archaeological findings that express the exquisite sensibility of its artists and the mastery of its craftsmen.

In 391 B.C., Chiusi was besieged by the Gauls which marked the beginning of its decline. It later became a Roman province. The city, rebaptized Clusium, and its territory continued to have an important role and in 89 B.C. its inhabitants were granted  Roman citizenship. In the 6th century A.D. Chiusi was occupied by the Lombards and became a dukedom. Later, Emperor Charlemagne trasformed Chiusi into a county.

Chiusi became a battlefield between Florence and Siena, being a faithful ally of the latter, the city declined and only in the l9th century with the complete reclamation of the valley below did it have a comeback.

Today Chiusi is a flourishing country town, with excellent railway and motorway links; it lies less than 150 km from Rome, a little more than 100 km from Florence and about 60 km from Siena.

Chiusi is close to important tourist centers such as: Chianciano, Montepulciano, Pienza, Orvieto, Cortona, representing a valid starting-point for interesting historical-artistical excursions. The nearby lakes of Chiusi, Montepulciano and Trasimeno as well as the uncontaminated Mountains of Cetona and Amiata make it possible to enjoy a relaxing nature holiday.