Exploring the Medieval Marvels of San Gimignano with Aoife

A Warm Tuscan Welcome

After a scenic train ride from Florence, Aoife and I finally arrived in San Gimignano, ready to immerse ourselves in its medieval charm. The anticipation had been building for months, and I couldn't wait to wander through the ancient streets and discover the stories behind those famous towers. Settling into the Hotel Leon Bianco, right on Piazza Della Cisterna, was a treat – the location is perfect for exploring.


Discover the enchanting Hotel Leon Bianco in the heart of San Gimignano, perfect for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and captivating local attractions.

Our first order of business was breakfast, and Cum Quibus - Ristorante Toscano came highly recommended. It was a delightful start to the day. The atmosphere was cozy, and the Tuscan flavors were authentic. Aoife enjoyed a cappuccino with a pastry, while I opted for a hearty breakfast of local cheeses and cured meats. It was the perfect fuel for our explorations.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Cum Quibus in San Gimignano, where tradition meets innovation in every delectable dish.

Exploring Piazza del Duomo

Our first stop was the Piazza del Duomo, the heart of religious and political life in medieval San Gimignano. The square is beautiful, with its slightly sloped brick paving and the imposing Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta, also known as the Duomo. We climbed the steps to the church and admired its travertine facade.


Discover the enchanting Piazza del Duomo, a medieval square in San Gimignano, where history, art, and stunning landscapes converge in Tuscany.

The Collegiata, consecrated in 1148, is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Inside, the frescoes depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments were captivating. It's incredible to think that these artworks have been preserved for centuries. The square itself is steeped in history, having been the center of the town's religious and political activities since the Middle Ages. It was easy to imagine what life must have been like centuries ago, with merchants trading and townspeople gathering in this very spot. The surrounding buildings, including the Palazzo Vecchio del Podestà with its Torre Rognosa, added to the sense of stepping back in time.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

Climbing Torre dei Cugnanesi

Next, we made our way to the Torre dei Cugnanesi. This tower, closely associated with the Palazzo Cugnanesi, is one of the tallest in San Gimignano. As we approached, I couldn't help but marvel at its height and the architectural details of the Palazzo, with its external corbels supporting a balcony. The tower dates back to the 13th century and was part of the defensive system connected to the Arc of Becci. Climbing the Torre dei Cugnanesi offered a fantastic glimpse into the defensive strategies of the time and provided stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. From the top, we could see the rolling hills of Tuscany stretching out before us, dotted with vineyards and olive groves. It was a truly breathtaking sight.


Explore the historic Torre dei Cugnanesi in San Gimignano, a majestic tower offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Tuscany's medieval past.

Stepping Back in Time at SanGimignano1300

Our afternoon was dedicated to visiting SanGimignano1300, a museum that recreates the town as it looked in the 14th century. The miniature reproduction of the village was incredibly detailed, with its 800 buildings and 72 towers. It gave us a unique perspective on the town's history and architecture. It was fascinating to see how the towers dominated the skyline, each one a symbol of the wealth and power of the noble families who built them. The museum provided valuable insights into the town's urban planning and the daily life of its inhabitants during the medieval period. We learned about the various crafts and trades that flourished in San Gimignano and the importance of the Via Francigena, the pilgrimage route that passed through the town.


Discover the rich history and culture of San Gimignano at SanGimignano1300, a captivating museum in the heart of Tuscany.

A Culinary Delight

Lunch was at Ristorante Bel Soggiorno, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The restaurant is known for its traditional Tuscan dishes and its breathtaking views of the valley. Aoife ordered the spaghetti carbonara, while I chose the ribeye. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, and the flavors were rich and authentic. The restaurant itself had a cozy, rustic atmosphere, with terracotta floors and exposed wooden beams. The panoramic view from the dining room was simply stunning, overlooking the rolling Tuscan hills. It was the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch, savoring the delicious food and the beautiful scenery.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Bel Soggiorno in San Gimignano - where every dish tells a story.

Evening Indulgence and Local Flavors

As evening approached, we decided to visit Divinorum Wine Bar for a pre-dinner drink. This charming wine bar is located in the heart of San Gimignano and offers a wide selection of local and international wines. Aoife opted for a glass of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the town's famous white wine, while I tried a local red. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff and fellow travelers. Sitting on the terrace, we enjoyed the panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. It was the perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.


Experience the finest wines and authentic Tuscan flavors at Divinorum Wine Bar in San Gimignano, where every sip tells a story.

For dinner, we chose Perucà, a restaurant known for its truffle risotto and ravioli. The restaurant had a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a homey decor. Aoife ordered the truffle risotto, while I opted for the ravioli with pecorino, pears, saffron, and cream. Both dishes were delicious, and the service was prompt and attentive. I particularly enjoyed the ravioli, which was perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The wine list was extensive, and we found a local red that paired perfectly with our meal. It was a truly memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Perucà in San Gimignano – where tradition meets taste in every bite.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Piazza della Cisterna, Porta delle Fonti, and the Viewpoint San Gimignano. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting the Truffle Boutique. It's safe to say that San Gimignano has already captured our hearts, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the magic of San Gimignano. From the historical landmarks to the culinary delights, every moment was a treasure. I am so happy to be sharing this experience with Aoife, and I know that our journey here is just beginning. I couldn't have asked for a better start to our Tuscan adventure. The blend of history, art, and culinary excellence has left us eager to discover more of what this medieval marvel has to offer. As we strolled back to our hotel, hand in hand, we felt a deep sense of contentment and gratitude. San Gimignano had welcomed us with open arms, and we were ready to embrace all that it had in store. The promise of new discoveries and unforgettable experiences filled our hearts, and we knew that this trip would be one for the books.