San Gimignano, also known as the “Medieval Manhattan” thanks to its unique skyline, is a small hilltown located in the Val D’Elsa. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, because it offers visitors the chance to step back in time. At the height of its glory, in 1282, San Gimignano’s aristocratic families had built around 72 tower-houses as symbols of their wealth and power. 14 of these magnificent towers are still standing today and giving the city a medieval appearance. The most popular are: – Torre Rognosa, the oldest, built in the thirteenth century. – Torre del Podestà , the highest tower in the village (54 meters high)
Although the towers are the most striking part of San Gimignano, this beautiful village boasts the presence of other monuments of inestimable value.
Duomo di San Gimignano
San Gimignano Cathedral
The Cathedral hides inside a 14th century fresco that covers every inch of the three naves. The colors, in some parts, still appear bright and lively, although they have never been restored. The frescoes were dusted off during the shooting of the “A tea with Mussolini” movie, as compensation from the director for being able to use the Cathedral.
Cappella di Santa Fina
Chapel of Santa Fina
Inside the Collegiata del Duomo there is a small chapel that houses the relics of the patron saint of San Gimignano: Santa Fina. The creation of this chapel sees the architect de Maiano, his brother sculptor de Maiano and the painter Ghirlandaio working together, in order to give birth to a real jewel of Renaissance. The hand of Ghirlandaio is clear in the frescoes on the right and left of the chapel which represent the death and funeral of the Martyr.
Palazzo comunale
The City Hall of San Gimignano
Inside the City Hall you can find the Pinacoteca and the Civic Museum which houses works by great artists such as Pier Francesco Fiorentino, Benozzo Gozzoli, Domenico di Michelino and Filippino Lippi.
Moreover, from the Municipal Palace it is possible to access the Torre della Podestà.
Vernaccia D.O.C.G.
You cannot leave this pearl of Middle Ages without having first tasted a glass of one of the finest white wines in Italy: Vernaccia.
It was the first Italian wine to be awarded the title of Controlled Denomination of Origin (D.O.C.) in 1966, and in 1993 the Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin (D.O.C.G.).
To learn more about the history of this fine nectar, we recommend visiting the Vernaccia Wine Museum, located in the Villa della Rocca di Montestaffoli.