Explore San Gimignano: A Medieval Masterpiece

San Gimignano, a medieval gem near Florence, has retained its ancient architecture thanks to its historical insignificance during periods of modern development. Once a stop on the pilgrim path to Rome and a hub for saffron trade, the town's economic decline preserved its original structures, now restored under UNESCO's guidance.

Artists of the Renaissance, including Domenico Ghirlandaio and Benozzo Gozzoli, left their mark on the town's churches. Today, San Gimignano is famed for its 13 surviving towers out of the original 70, creating a unique skyline.

Here are the must-see attractions in San Gimignano:

1. Centro Storico: Piazza della Cisterna and Towers

The Centro Storico's towers, once symbols of family power, dominate the skyline. The triangular Piazza della Cisterna is the focal point, surrounded by notable towers and leading to streets lined with noble homes.

2. Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Duomo

The Romanesque Santa Maria Assunta church showcases frescoes by Renaissance artists and the Cappella di Santa Fina, a testament to the town's artistic heritage.

Adventurous things to do in San Gimignano

3. Palazzo del Pópolo and Torre Grosso

The Palazzo del Pópolo, with its towering Torre Grossa, houses the Museo Civico, displaying artworks spanning four centuries.

4. Sant'Agostino

Sant'Agostino church is adorned with a marble altar and frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli, reflecting the town's rich religious art.

5. San Gimignano 1300

The San Gimignano 1300 museum presents a detailed model of the city as it was in the Middle Ages, along with exhibits on local history and architecture.

6. Casa Campatelli and Tower

Casa Campatelli offers a peek into 18th-century life in San Gimignano, complete with original furnishings and a climbable medieval tower.

7. Rocca Montestaffoli

The remains of Rocca Montestaffoli castle provide stunning views and a historical backdrop for the annual La Giostra dei Bastoni tournament.

8. City Walls and Gates

The 13th-century walls encircling the town offer picturesque walks and encounters with ancient gates.

9. Museums of Torture and the Death Penalty

These museums provide a sobering look at the history of torture and capital punishment through a collection of artifacts.

10. Santa Chiara Museum (Archeological Museum and Herbarium)

The Santa Chiara Museum houses an archeological collection and an ancient herb pharmacy, offering insights into the town's past and medicinal practices.

11. San Iácopo

The Church of San Iácopo, associated with the Knights Templar, features a striking facade and a notable fresco of the Crucifixion.

12. Pieve di Cèllole

Set in the countryside, the Pieve di Cèllole church offers panoramic views and houses significant frescoes and a baptismal font.

Where to Stay in San Gimignano for Sightseeing

For a comfortable stay, consider these moderately priced hotels in convenient locations:

• Hotel Leon Bianco: On Piazza della Cisterna, with air-conditioned rooms and breakfast.
• Hotel L'Antico Pozzo: Inside the city walls, offering spacious rooms and free internet.
• La Cisterna: Near attractions, with rooms featuring city views and buffet breakfast.
• Hotel Bel Soggiorno: Comfortable rooms, some with Tuscan hill views, and an on-site restaurant.

More Related Articles on tripates.com

Extend your Tuscany adventure by visiting other hilltop towns like Arezzo and Montepulciano, or explore the cities of Siena, Florence, and Pisa.