San Gimignano: Towers, Art and History

San Gimignano on the Hilltop

The historic centre of San Gimignano lies on a hilltop and dominates the surrounding landscape. At the same time, it preserves its architectural unity and original urban layout. Its distinctive silhouette includes 14 striking towers, which likewise dominate the landscape. Piazza della Cisterna is one of the city’s two main squares and is defined by a central well.

Art and Sacred History

The Cathedral of San Gimignano houses masterpieces of 14th- and 15th-century Italian art. The Spezieria di Santa Fina was incorporated in 1253 into the Spedale Santa Fina, which had been founded in the mid-13th century. The Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Ponte is a small Romanesque church from the 13th century, probably built on the remains of an older church.

The Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Ponte contains an extensive fresco cycle depicting Hell, Purgatory and Paradise, executed by Cenni di Francesco at the beginning of the second decade of the 15th century. In one fresco in this church, Simone Martini painted the face of the Madonna and Child in Glory during his youth.

Museums from the Middle Ages to the Present

The Museo d’Arte Sacra di San Gimignano is located in the former dormitory of the chaplains. It displays paintings, sculptures, low-reliefs, illuminated manuscripts, textiles and silverware from churches and monasteries in the surrounding area. The museum includes Bartolo di Fredi’s Madonna della Rosa, considered one of the Sienese painter’s most refined works. The Musei Civici convey history from Etruscan finds to contemporary art. The Palazzo Comunale – also known as the Palazzo Pubblico – houses the city museum and the Pinacoteca of San Gimignano. The Museo Archeologico e della Via Francigena also includes a section on the medieval production of glass and ceramics.

Towers, Fortress and Wine

The Rocca di Montestaffoli is a fortress built in the 14th century. The Torre Grossa is also known as the Torre del Podestà. It was built in 1311 and, at 54 metres, remains the tallest tower in San Gimignano.

Via Francigena and Vernaccia

The Via Francigena passes through San Gimignano; stage 31 ends in the city’s historic centre. At the Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Experience – La Rocca, wine tastings are available by prior reservation with the support of experienced sommeliers.

Getting to San Gimignano

San Gimignano’s car parks are located to the north and south of the city, making access easier for visitors.

For further orientation, you can also find Ulignano and Montauto. Other destinations include San Quirico D'orcia, Abbadia San Salvatore, Radicofani, Badiaccia A Montemuro, Fonteregina and La Fratta.

For the overview of the wider travel area: Siena.