Pitigliano — The Timeless Cliffside Jewel of Tuscany

Pitigliano is a truly unique town in Italy, nestled in the province of Grosseto, Tuscany and often referred to as the “Italian Jerusalem.” Like much of Italy, history breathes through every corner, but here it’s especially vivid. Ancient stone alleys, medieval architecture, and charming restaurants evoke centuries past, all wrapped in a luxurious and welcoming atmosphere.

It’s also a highlight of my Tuscany Photo Tours, a place that stands apart for its photogenic character and emotional depth. This image was captured from a high vantage point, facing the town directly, where the story lives in the walls themselves.

I left the hotel in Pienza for a 55-minute drive, aware of the incoming clouds and anticipating that blue hour would be the perfect moment, and it was. The shooting spot is easily accessible, with convenient parking just steps away.

For this session, I chose the classic Canon EF 24–105mm and the 5D Mark IV, using only a polarizer and a 2-stop soft grad to control the highlights in the foreground. The result is a simple yet faithful portrait of Pitigliano, just as it is, bathed in warm twilight, with night gently approaching.