San Gimignano of Italy

Published by jacko77 on Wed Nov 18th, 2009

San Gimignano is one of the most visited medieval villages in Italy because of its rich history, fascinating architecture and amazing hilltop view of the towers built around the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. 

The village is around 60km south west of Florence and was built on top of a hill with a height of around 300 metres which gives you fantastic views of the Elsa Valley and the surrounding areas.  

With it's quaint narrow streets, wine and souvenir shops, historical buildings and fine selection of religious buildings it's makes a great day out from the major cities to the surrounding areas, but to get a real experience of this medieval village aim to stay overnight because the whole place takes on a different atmosphere and feel about it during the evenings.

San Gimignano as several main historical attractions of interest to most tourists, besides the towers there is:

La Collegiata which is an 11th century duomo which as been decorated with high standards from the 14th century.

Torture Museum.

La Rocca remains which was used as the 14th century fortress as is worth a visit.

Palazzo del Popolo Civic Museum which contains amazing artwork from the 13th -15th century.

Medievel Fountains which was from the 9th century as was used by the town people to get water and was their laundry.