In memory of a “ruffian” and in the name of love

On the external wall of a building in Monticchiello, in via San Luigi, 13, a human head in stone has been affixed with the inscription "O ruffian, please spy yes". It is said that, at the end of the 1800s, the owner of the house accused his neighbour of having reported him to the authorities for his trafficking, and, for this reason, of having got him into trouble. To get his revenge, he sculpted the face of the hated owner of the house opposite, in mockery. This speaks volumes about the character of the local people. The streets of Pienza, however, are more romantic, where there are alleys dedicated to love and kisses.