Tuscany's Montepulciano and San Gimignano festivals showcase new summer programs

The 51st edition of the Cantiere Internazionale d’Arte in Montepulciano opened with a tribute to composer Hans Werner Henze and new productions, including a reinterpretation of *Don Chisciotte della Mancia*. Directed by pianist Mariangela Vacatello, the festival featured concerts in the Chiostro della Chiesa di Sant’Agnese and the Teatro Poliziano, with performances by the Chigiana Chamber Ensemble and soloists such as Maria Eleonora Caminada and Alessandro Carbonare.

In San Gimignano, the XIV edition of the Orizzonti Verticali festival ran from 30 July to 2 August 2026, presenting a multidisciplinary program of theatre, dance, music, performance and installations across the historic city. Artistic directors Tuccio Guicciardini and Patrizia de Bari highlighted a new partnership framework after ending collaboration with the Fondazione Fabbrica Europa, and secured support from the municipality, the Tuscany region and local cultural institutions, including the Accademia Musicale Chigiana and Galleria Continua.