Bagno a Ripoli between Florence, Chianti and cultural heritage

Bagno a Ripoli lies between Florence and Chianti. The area includes cypresses, farmhouses, vineyards, olive groves, tabernacles and wineries.

Cultural history between farm estate and garden architecture

The Oratorio di Santa Caterina delle Ruote was built from 1354 onwards at the Rimezzano farm estate at the foot of Poggio di Baroncelli by Jacopo and Giovanni, the sons of Alberto degli Alberti. The Fonte della Fata Morgana, also known as the Casina delle Fate, was commissioned by Bernardo Vecchietti in the second half of the 16th century. It is a unique example of garden architecture combining a nymphaeum and a grotto.

Palio delle Contrade and Giostra della Stella

The Palio delle Contrade – Giostra della Stella includes a historical parade with musicians and flag bearers, followed by a tournament. During the tournament, riders use swords to target a star suspended from a golden lion. The Palio takes place annually on the second Sunday in September in the municipality of Bagno a Ripoli and was established in 1980.

Cycling history in Ponte a Ema

The Museo del ciclismo Gino Bartali is located in Ponte a Ema. With velocipedes, bicycles, jerseys, memorabilia, historical newspapers, publications and films, it documents the history of cycling, Gino Bartali’s achievements and the accomplishments of other champions. The collection combines historic vehicles and personal equipment with written and film materials. Admission is free; reservations can be made by email or telephone.

Medici retreat and Romanesque parish church

In the late 17th century, Cardinal Francesco Maria de’ Medici (1660–1711) used the Medici retreat in Lilliano as a private country house. The retreat lies between the districts of Antella and Grassina in Bagno a Ripoli, in the valley of the Ema River, and has a terraced garden enclosed by a stone wall. The Pieve di Santa Maria dell’Antella dates from the 11th century and preserves the understated elegance of the Romanesque style on the exterior. The Pieve di San Donnino a Villamagna has its roots in the 8th century; the present building dates from a later Romanesque reconstruction.

Borghi e colline route

The Borghi e colline route around Bagno a Ripoli is approximately 43 kilometres long and divided into four stages. It connects side roads, paths and minor roads, which are accessible via corresponding signage. The route leads through the hills of the municipality, past olive trees and cypresses, with panoramic views of Chianti and the valley of Florence. The four stages of the Borghi e colline route pass through the municipality of Bagno a Ripoli.

Further exploration

For further orientation, you can also explore Le Case San Romolo, Capannuccia and Grassina.

For the overarching travel overview: Florence.

More destinations

More places within the same destination:

Limite, Pelago, Firenzuola, Borgo San Lorenzo, Fontanella.