HOME
THE REGIONS OF ITALY
PLACES IN ITALY
Italy in Photos
Piazza Della Cisterna, 53037 San Gimignano, Italy (September 2018)
San Gimignano
San Gimignano is a small, enchanting town located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, renowned for its medieval architecture, historic towers, and stunning hilltop views. Often called the “Town of Fine Towers,” it has a unique skyline defined by numerous tall structures that have stood for centuries, giving the town an unmistakable character. Perched on a hill between Florence and Siena, San Gimignano has long been a strategic settlement and a hub for trade, attracting merchants, artists, and travellers throughout history. Its well-preserved medieval centre has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of Italy’s most cherished historic towns.
The town’s origins date back to the Etruscan period, and it later developed under Roman influence. During the Middle Ages, San Gimignano reached its peak as a prosperous centre of commerce and art, largely due to its location along important trade routes, including the Via Francigena, the path that pilgrims travelled on their way to Rome. Wealthy families competed to build towers as symbols of power and prestige, and at one point, the town boasted over seventy towers. Today, fourteen of these towers remain, offering visitors a glimpse into the town’s vibrant past and the ambitions of its medieval inhabitants.
Walking through San Gimignano feels like stepping back in time. The streets are narrow and winding, lined with stone buildings that house shops, cafes, and artisan workshops. The main square, Piazza della Cisterna, is the heart of the town and one of the most beautiful public spaces in Tuscany. Surrounded by historic buildings and shaded by ancient trees, the square hosts markets, cultural events, and gatherings, reflecting the town’s lively community spirit. Another notable square, Piazza del Duomo, is home to the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Inside, visitors can admire frescoes that depict biblical stories, created by prominent artists of the period.
San Gimignano is also celebrated for its cultural and culinary offerings. The town has a strong tradition of local craftsmanship, including pottery, leather goods, and glasswork, which visitors can explore in small workshops and boutiques. Culinary traditions are equally rich, with specialties such as saffron, wild fennel, and local cheeses featuring prominently in regional cuisine. The town is particularly famous for its white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, which has been produced in the area for centuries and continues to be a symbol of the town’s agricultural heritage. Wine tours and tastings offer an opportunity to experience the flavours of Tuscany while enjoying the breath-taking countryside.
The surrounding landscape adds another layer of charm to San Gimignano. Rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a serene backdrop that changes with the seasons. Walking or cycling in the countryside allows visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty and rural traditions of the region. Scenic viewpoints around the town provide panoramic vistas of the towers and valleys below, offering some of the most photographed landscapes in Italy.
Throughout the year, San Gimignano hosts festivals and cultural events that celebrate its history, art, and traditions. Medieval re-enactments, local fairs, and religious celebrations provide a glimpse into the customs and heritage that have shaped the town over centuries. These events, combined with the town’s architectural and natural beauty, make San Gimignano a destination that appeals to both history enthusiasts and travellers seeking authentic experiences in Tuscany.
San Gimignano is a remarkable destination where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. Its medieval towers, historic squares, artistic treasures, and local traditions create an atmosphere that is both timeless and inviting. Visitors to the town can explore centuries of heritage, savour the flavours of Tuscany, and enjoy some of the most breath-taking views in the region. San Gimignano offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm and elegance of medieval Italy in a setting that has remained remarkably intact over the centuries.
Worth a Visit
Piazzale Montemaggio is a breath-taking viewpoint located just outside the medieval town of San Gimignano, in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. Renowned for its panoramic vistas, the square offers sweeping views of the rolling Tuscan countryside, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and quaint farmhouses. From this elevated vantage point, visitors can admire the iconic skyline of San Gimignano, famously crowned by its medieval towers, which rise dramatically above the town’s red-tiled roofs. Piazzale Montemaggio is especially popular during sunrise and sunset, when the golden light transforms the landscape into a painterly scene, making it a favourite spot for photographers and travellers seeking tranquillity. Accessible by car or a short walk from the town, the piazzale also features a charming café where visitors can enjoy local wines and refreshments while taking in the stunning views. Its serene ambiance and breath-taking scenery make it a must-visit destination in Tuscany.
Via San Giovanni is one of the charming historic streets in San Gimignano, a picturesque medieval town in Tuscany, Italy. This narrow, cobblestone street winds gently through the heart of the town, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich past. Lined with centuries-old stone buildings, artisan shops, and quaint cafés, Via San Giovanni exudes an authentic Tuscan atmosphere. Walking along the street, visitors can admire the architectural details of the medieval houses, ancient doorways, and flower-filled windows, which capture the essence of small-town Italy. The street also connects to some of San Gimignano’s main squares, making it an ideal route for exploring the town’s famous towers and historic landmarks. Via San Giovanni offers a peaceful, intimate experience, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the charm, history, and everyday life of this UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a perfect spot for leisurely strolls, photography, and discovering local crafts.
Piazza della Cisterna is the vibrant heart of San Gimignano, a stunning medieval town in Tuscany, Italy. Named after the central cistern that once collected rainwater, this triangular square is surrounded by charming, historic buildings and medieval towers that define the town’s iconic skyline. Lined with cafés, gelaterias, and artisan shops, the piazza is a lively gathering place for both locals and visitors. Its cobblestone surface and colorful façades evoke the atmosphere of a bygone era, offering a perfect blend of history and everyday life. From Piazza della Cisterna, it is easy to explore other landmarks in San Gimignano, including the nearby Piazza del Duomo. The square is also a popular spot for photography, as its unique layout and surrounding towers create striking views. Whether enjoying a coffee, watching street performances, or simply soaking in the medieval charm, Piazza della Cisterna captures the essence of Tuscany’s rich cultural heritage.
Piazza del Duomo is the historic and cultural center of San Gimignano, a renowned medieval town in Tuscany, Italy. This elegant square is surrounded by impressive architectural landmarks, including the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta, also known as the Duomo, and the Palazzo Comunale, with its striking Torre Grossa. The piazza has been a hub of civic and religious life for centuries, reflecting the town’s rich history and artistic heritage. Its open, cobblestone space invites visitors to stroll, admire the intricate façades, and appreciate the blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Piazza del Duomo also houses several notable museums and frescoes, offering insight into San Gimignano’s medieval past. With its combination of history, art, and vibrant local life, the square is a must-visit destination, providing a perfect setting to experience the charm and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage town in Tuscany.
Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Viale Roma to Via Degli Innocenti
Approximately 0.88 km 0.55 – miles
The walk starts in Viale Roma – Piazzale Montemaggio – Porta San Giovanni, Viale Roma – Via S. Giovanni – Via Palestro – Via Degli
Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Via S. Stefano – Basilica S. Maria Assunta, Piazza Pecori
Approximately 0.32 km – 0.20 miles
The walk starts in Via S. Stefano – Via del Castello – Piazza Della Cisterna – Piazza del Duomo – Piazza Pecori – Basilica S. Maria Assunta, Piazza Pecori
COPYRIGHT © 2018-2026 ITALY IN PHOTOS - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED