Leopoldino massif

Impossible not to notice, the Masso Leopoldino rises well above the skyline of Sovana, watching over the city like a hawk.

Built in the 18th century, the fortress was commissioned by the powerful Duke Leopold of Lorraine in an attempt to make the city impregnable.

Built in the 18th century, the fortress was commissioned by the powerful Duke Leopold of Lorraine in an attempt to make the city impregnable.

Peering over the side of the building that is on the rock face is a little scary. It’s a difference in height of meters and meters to the valley floor and the 18th century architects didn’t really think about the safety of tourists.

If you have children, keep them away from the edge. If you don’t and aren’t afraid of heights, then this is an incredible vantage point to take in the city and valley below.

Astute observers with very, very good eyesight might be able to make out the ancient “caves,” used by the Etruscans to store food and livestock. They sprout from the cliffs surrounding the city like Swiss cheese!

On the other side of the panoramic terrace is a very old, but still functioning clock tower. It was built at the same time as the fortress and embraces the same militaristic style.

When Duke Leopold commissioned the fortress, he designed a single entrance, the Porta dei Merli, which still exists today. A very ancient arch, it is carved into travertine and crowned by two coats of arms, the first belonging to Cosimo II de’Medici, while the other is that of Niccolò IV Orsini.

What I find so interesting about the Masso Leopoldino is that it is located almost parallel to the Orsini Fortress on the other side of town. Sovana and its picturesque streets are squeezed between the two imposing buildings like a precious treasure in need of protection.

Indeed, Sovana is beautiful enough to deserve such protection.