Exploring the Medieval Charm of San Gimignano

San Gimignano's Artistic Heartbeat

Today was a delightful blend of art, history, and culinary exploration in San Gimignano. Lena and I dove headfirst into the town's vibrant culture, discovering hidden gems and savoring the authentic Tuscan experience. It's amazing how much character and charm is packed into this medieval town, and I'm excited to share our discoveries.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Mangiatoia. I opted for the classic Tuscan breakfast with local cheeses, cured meats, and crusty bread. Lena, ever the fan of sweets, chose a flaky pastry filled with creamy ricotta and drizzled with honey. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at La Mangiatoia, a top-rated Italian restaurant nestled in scenic San Gimignano.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to Galleria Continua. I’ve always appreciated contemporary art, and I was excited to see what this renowned gallery had to offer. Tucked away in a former cinema-theater, the gallery's expansive space was a surprise. The current exhibition, “Sbilenco” by Valentina Ornaghi and Claudio Prestinari, was thought-provoking. Their pieces, using everyday objects in surreal and ambiguous ways, really made me think about the ironies of life. Lena, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly taken by the way they used the space, integrating the art with the building's original features. We spent a good couple of hours wandering through the exhibits, discussing our interpretations and just soaking in the creativity.


Explore contemporary art in the heart of San Gimignano at Galleria Continua, where modern creativity meets historical elegance.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Leaving the gallery, we decided to tackle some of San Gimignano’s famous towers. First up was Torre Rognosa. As the second tallest tower in San Gimignano, it offered stunning panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. The climb was a bit strenuous, especially in the midday sun, but the view from the top was worth every step. I could see the rolling hills of Tuscany stretching out in every direction, dotted with vineyards and olive groves. Lena snapped photos, capturing the beauty of the landscape, while I just stood there, taking it all in. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel.


Discover Torre Rognosa, a historical landmark in San Gimignano, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Tuscany's medieval past.

Next, we visited Torri degli Ardinghelli, the twin towers that stand proudly in Piazza della Cisterna. These towers, built in the 12th century, were once symbols of the rivalry between the Ardinghelli and Salvucci families. Their history is fascinating, and their architecture is a testament to the wealth and power of the families who built them. Lena was intrigued by the differences between the two towers, one narrower and more austere, the other wider with arched windows. It was a great example of how even similar structures can have their own unique character.


Experience the enchanting Torri degli Ardinghelli, a medieval masterpiece in the heart of San Gimignano, offering stunning views and rich history.

After all that climbing and exploring, we were definitely ready for lunch. We headed to Osteria San Giovanni, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. We shared a plate of pici pasta with wild boar ragu, a dish that was rich, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. We also tried the ribollita, a hearty bread and vegetable soup that was perfect for a slightly cooler afternoon. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Osteria San Giovanni in San Gimignano – where every dish tells a story.

As the sun began to set, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at Divina Lounge Bar. This cozy spot offered a great selection of local wines and craft cocktails. I opted for a classic Negroni, while Lena tried a sparkling Vernaccia, a local white wine. We sat outside, enjoying the warm evening air and watching the town come alive with evening activity. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.


Discover the charm of Divina Lounge Bar in San Gimignano, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you.

For dinner, we chose Ristorante Dorandò, a place recommended by several locals. The restaurant's 14th-century arched brick walls and ceiling gave it a unique and historic atmosphere. The menu was a creative blend of traditional Tuscan dishes with a modern twist. I started with the pumpkin cream soup flavored with truffle, which was rich and decadent. For my main course, I had the pasta rolls filled with rabbit in Vernaccia of San Gimignano wine with olive oil of herbs. Lena chose the ginger apple pie with delicate cream, macaroons, pine seeds and raisins for dessert, and even though she usually doesn't like apple pie, she could not stop raving about it. The service was impeccable, and the chef even came out to chat with us about the history of the restaurant and the local cuisine.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of San Gimignano at Ristorante Dorandò – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

Today was particularly special because it was Father's Day. It made me think of my own dad back in Kelowna, and I wished I could celebrate with him in person. I made sure to give him a call later in the evening, sharing stories of our adventures in San Gimignano. It wasn't the same as being there, but it was a close second.

As we walked back to Hotel Bel Soggiorno, hand in hand, Lena and I reflected on the day. San Gimignano had truly captured our hearts. The blend of art, history, and culinary delights was intoxicating. It was a day filled with laughter, discovery, and unforgettable moments. As a software developer, I often get caught up in the logic and precision of coding, but days like these remind me of the importance of creativity and exploration.


Discover the charm of San Gimignano at Hotel Bel Soggiorno, a cozy 3-star haven with modern amenities, perfect for exploring the city's historical beauty.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Mura della città, visit the Bagolaro di San Gimignano - Albero monumentale, and delve into the Museum of Torture. I'm particularly interested in seeing the ancient city walls and learning more about the history of the area. Lena is a bit apprehensive about the Museum of Torture, but I assured her that it would be an educational experience. We’ll also be stopping by Made intaly, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs for our families. I'm hoping to find some unique items that capture the essence of San Gimignano.

San Gimignano continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. I’m looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you tomorrow!

We also learned that today was the last day of the Ferie delle Messi, a medieval festival that takes place in San Gimignano every June. We saw remnants of the markets and performances, and it made us wish we had arrived a few days earlier to fully experience the festivities. The town was buzzing with energy, and it added an extra layer of excitement to our day. It was fascinating to imagine what life must have been like during the Middle Ages, with knights, storytellers, and artisans filling the streets.

As we settle in for the night, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. San Gimignano has exceeded all of our expectations, and I'm already looking forward to our next adventure.

For those planning a trip to San Gimignano, I highly recommend visiting during the Ferie delle Messi. It's a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the town's history and culture. Also, be sure to try the local Vernaccia wine and the saffron-infused dishes. They are a true taste of Tuscany.

Goodnight from San Gimignano!