Chianciano Terme - At the time
of the Etruscans, in the 5th century B.C., there was a temple
close to the spring named Sillene, where Chianciano Terme
is today.
Dedicated to the god of Good Health,
it contained larger bronze statues. Abundant archaeological
evidence, recently discovered, goes back as far as the 7th
century B.C..
In Roman times, the curative power
of its waters had spread Chianciano's fame far and wide. In
the first century B.C., Antonio Musa the doctor, suggested
them to the poet Horace, who went, drank and was cured. Luxurious
villas were built in the area, with thermal baths such as
those found at Mezzomiglio and Camerelle. There is little
archaeological evidence from the Middle Ages.
The fact, however, that the church
of Sillene, built near the remains of an ancient castle,
is dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, a favourite of
the Longobards, may signify that it was established by them
in the same area as the pagan temple. There is archival evidence
of a castrum at Petroio, not far from the Abbey of Saint Peter,
no longer extant.
In the 12th and 13th centuries, Chianciano
belonged to the Manenti Counts, Lords of Sarteano. Its position
close to the Via Francigena (the medieval "highway"
to Rome) fostered its development, and Chianciano reached
a degree of judicial autonomy when, in 1287, it established
it own Statutes. In the 14th century, Orvieto and Siena contended
for it, until it was seized by the Siena Republic.
Modern Chianciano Terme developed by
exploiting the many springs of therapeutic waters, and by
providing visitors with leisure and relaxation in the large
Parco Acquasanta.
How to reach Chianciano Terme: From Siena take direction
Arezzo on the fast road Siena - Bettolle. At bettolle take
the highway A1 and follow direction Rome. Exit Chiusi and
Follow indications for Chianciano Terme.
Where is Chianciano Terme: is located in the south
of Siena province, in the border with the Umbria region. See
the map
Nearby: Chiusi, Montepulciano, Cetona, Sarteano
Distances: Siena 80 Km - Florence 130 Km - Pisa 200
Km - Arezzo 70 Km
Correct name is Chianciano Terme
Common mistakes are Chinciano, Chiangiano, Kianciano,
Chiancyano, Term, Termas
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Chianciano Terme
- Siena - Tuscany Italy
Chianciano Terme 
