Impruneta: Terracotta, Sanctuary and Hilly Landscape

Impruneta lies between the Ema stream and the Greve River in a hilly landscape of vineyards, olive groves, woodlands and grain fields. At the same time, a long tradition of brick and terracotta production characterizes the town. The material known as cotto imprunetino has become a distinctive element of Tuscan architecture and landscape. If you would like to combine the natural environment with local craftsmanship, Impruneta offers both.

Terracotta as a Local Distinguishing Feature

This ceramic tradition has a precisely defined basis: The C.A.T. seal for artistic and traditional ceramics from Impruneta may be affixed to works exclusively by Impruneta producers registered in the C.A.T. manufacturers’ register, provided that the works were made in kilns within the municipality of Impruneta and comply with the relevant regulations. The seal therefore stands for a clearly limited origin and production process.

Sacred Art and Cultural Sites

The Santuario di Santa Maria in Impruneta was founded in 1060. The Museo del Tesoro di Santa Maria preserves votive offerings, sacred works of art, illuminated manuscripts, 15th-century textiles, silverwork and terracotta. For visitors interested in culture, this offers a perspective ranging from religious objects and historic textiles to materials shaped by craftsmanship.

The Commenda Impruneta was founded in 1746 to provide pilgrims on their way to the Sanctuary of Impruneta with accommodation and support. The Loggiato del Pellegrino houses Impruneta’s tourist information office and provides space for exhibitions, concerts, artistic performances, conferences and leisure events. The ground-level entrance is accessible to people with disabilities.

The Galleria Drenante also draws attention to the technical side of the town. It is a 171.1-meter-long drainage gallery that was excavated by hand in the second half of the 19th century.

Festivals, Markets and Flavors

Among the events, the Fiera di San Luca marks an important date. It is considered one of Europe’s oldest livestock fairs and takes place during the week that includes October 18, the feast day of Impruneta’s patron saint. Today’s program includes food markets, arts and crafts markets, art exhibitions, and cultural and leisure events. The connection with October 18 gives you a specific point of reference for planning your trip.

The Festa dell'Uva dell'Impruneta has been shaped since 1932 by the four Rioni: Rione delle Sante Marie, Rione del Sant'Antonio, Rione delle Fornaci and Rione del Pallò. They compete against one another with allegorical floats, costumes and choreographies.

The local cuisine includes Peposo all'imprunetina, a dish traditionally associated with the openings of the kilns in which Impruneta’s terracotta was fired. In this way, ceramics appear not only as a material but also in the town’s culinary identity.

On Foot or by Bicycle

For exploring on foot or by bicycle, there is the Anello del Rinascimento.

For further orientation, you can also look at Tavarnuzze and Pozzolatico.

For the overarching travel overview: Florence.

More Destinations

More places within the same destination:

Gigliola, Scandicci, Monterappoli, Linari, Ostina, Legri.