The “ideal Renaissance city” devised and commissioned by Pope Pius II, the humanist Enea Silvio Piccolimini, Pienza sits uchanged by time in the midst of the breathtaking, luminous landscape of the Val d’Orcia. The theme of light, crucial to the Pope’s architectural vision in the construction of his city, was evoked by the great contemporary poet Mario Luzi who sought inspiration in this area on more than one occasion. The best way to discover the Renaissance city is by taking the Pienza City of Light tour, which includes access to the Piccolomini Palace and Gardens, the Borgia Palace, the Museo Diocesano, the Cathedral and the Crypt with its unique labyrinth. The tour includes a free audio-guide.