People have been living in a walled city on this site for at least 25 centuries – probably more. After visiting, I can see why you’d wouldn’t want to leave.

Cortona was one of the 12 major cities of Etruria – that’s pre-Roman Tuscany. There’s a fascinating Etruscan museum in Cortona, with artifacts, jewelry and even a written contract dating back as far as the 900 BCE.

Beth and Dave at one of the six original Etruscan gates. Most of the city walls and six of the gates are pre-Roman.

A typical street view.

This land at the top of the hill has been a fortress since the 13th century. The current building was built in 1561 and restored in the 1970s. Today, it’s an art gallery with a breathtaking view. “Our” house was at the base of the hills in the distance.

More view.