Exploring the Medieval Charm of San Gimignano

A Day of Discovery in San Gimignano

Today was all about diving deeper into the heart of San Gimignano, beyond the iconic towers and bustling piazzas. Lena and I set out to uncover some of the town's lesser-known treasures, immersing ourselves in its rich history and vibrant culture. It's amazing how much you can discover when you venture just a little off the beaten path, trading the well-trodden tourist routes for the quiet corners of this medieval gem.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at dulcisinfundo. I was really looking forward to this breakfast, as I had read reviews about the herbs and olive oil they use in their dishes, which are made on a small farm behind the restaurant. It was a cozy little spot with a charming atmosphere. Lena opted for a classic cappuccino and a pastry, while I went for their farm-fresh eggs with local cheese. The eggs were incredible, rich and flavorful, and the cheese had a unique, nutty taste that I couldn't quite place. Sipping my coffee, I felt energized and ready to tackle the day. It's amazing how a simple, well-prepared meal can set the tone for an entire day of exploration.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Dulcis in Fundo in San Gimignano – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Casa Santa Fina was our first stop. Tucked away from the main thoroughfare, it offered a serene glimpse into the life of a local saint. As a history enthusiast, I was eager to learn more about Santa Fina, a figure deeply revered in San Gimignano. The house itself was simple and unassuming, but the atmosphere within was incredibly peaceful. Wandering through the rooms, I tried to imagine what life must have been like for her, living a life of piety and devotion in this medieval town. The story of Santa Fina is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact that faith and compassion can have on a community. It’s amazing to think that her legacy continues to inspire people centuries after her death.


Discover the spiritual heritage of San Gimignano at Casa Santa Fina, a serene historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the life of a beloved local saint.

Next on our list was the Chiesa di Sant'Agostino, a beautiful church that houses an impressive collection of art. From the outside, the church has a simple and austere appearance, but the interior reveals the artistic richness of the church. As we stepped inside, we were immediately struck by the grandeur of the space. The church is the second largest in San Gimignano, after the Collegiata. The highlight was undoubtedly the seventeen-panel fresco cycle on the Life of St. Augustine painted by Benozzo Gozzoli. The attention to detail was remarkable, and the colors were still so vibrant after all these years. Lena, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly impressed by the composition and use of light. We also admired the altarpiece, the Coronation of the Virgin by Piero del Pollaiuolo. It was truly a feast for the eyes, a testament to the artistic talent that flourished in this region during the Renaissance. We spent a good hour simply wandering around, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the artwork.


Discover the captivating beauty and rich history of Chiesa di Sant'Agostino, a must-visit Catholic church in the heart of San Gimignano.

The beauty of San Gimignano lies not only in its towers but also in the stories and art that fill its hidden corners.

Afterward, we made our way to the Palazzo Comunale, Pinacoteca, and Torre Grossa. The Palazzo Comunale, also known as the People's Palace, has been the seat of the civic authority since the 13th century. The palace is located on the Piazza del Duomo, close to the Collegiate Church. We decided to climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in San Gimignano, for a panoramic view of the town and surrounding countryside. The climb was a bit strenuous, but the view from the top was well worth it. From that vantage point, we could see the entire town spread out before us, a sea of red rooftops and ancient stone buildings. In the upper stories of the palazzo, we visited the Sala del Consiglio, and the civic museum and gallery. The Hall is commonly known as the Sala di Dante and is named for the noted poet Dante Alighieri who visited San Gimignano in 1300. The gallery itself is on the second floor and contains works by Coppo di Marcovaldo, Lippo Memmi, Benozzo Gozzoli and others. It was breathtaking to see the landscape stretching out to the horizon. It gave us a new perspective on the town and its place in the Tuscan landscape.


Discover the timeless beauty of San Gimignano's Palazzo Comunale, featuring exquisite art collections and stunning views from Torre Grossa.

Our exploration continued with a visit to Porta San Giovanni, the ancient gate that once served as the main entrance to the town from the south. As we approached the gate, we were struck by its imposing presence and the intricate stonework that has endured for centuries. The gate features a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. Passing through the Porta, we stepped back in time, imagining the countless travelers who had passed through this same gateway over the centuries. Just beyond the gate, we found the ruins of a late 16th-century church, La Madonna dei Lumi, its bell tower still visible. It was a powerful reminder of the town's rich history and the many layers of stories that are embedded in its stones. From Porta San Giovanni, we enjoyed a wonderful walk along the town walls, taking in the incredible view of the surrounding area.


Explore the historic charm of Porta San Giovanni, the majestic gateway to San Gimignano's medieval treasures and breathtaking landscapes.

For lunch, we chose Osteria Enoteca I Quattro Gatti, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. We started with the crostini misti, a selection of toasted bread topped with various local ingredients. For our main courses, Lena ordered the pici al cacio e pepe, a simple but delicious pasta dish made with pecorino cheese and black pepper. I opted for the pappardelle al ragu di cinghiale, wide ribbons of pasta served with a rich wild boar sauce. The pasta was perfectly cooked, and the sauce was bursting with flavor. We paired our meal with a bottle of local Vernaccia wine, which was crisp and refreshing. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the service was friendly and attentive. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after a busy morning of sightseeing.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Osteria Enoteca I Quattro Gatti in San Gimignano – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

In the afternoon, we indulged in some retail therapy at Beconcini Tuscan Handmade. I had read about the shop's exquisite leather goods and ceramics, and I was eager to see them for myself. I was not disappointed. The shop was filled with beautiful handmade items, from leather bags and wallets to hand-painted ceramics and intricate textiles. Lena fell in love with a delicate ceramic bowl, while I was drawn to a beautifully crafted leather belt. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and they were happy to share the stories behind the products and the artisans who created them. We ended up buying a few souvenirs for ourselves and some gifts for our family back in Germany. I am always looking for a unique piece of pottery or a handmade leather item, and this store encapsulates the spirit of the region through its dedication to quality and tradition.


Discover the essence of Tuscany at Beconcini Tuscan Handmade, where artisanal craftsmanship meets local tradition.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Il Ceppo Toscano for dinner. This restaurant is known for its traditional Italian cuisine. We started with a selection of Tuscan cured meats and cheeses, accompanied by crusty bread and local olive oil. For our main courses, Lena ordered the filetto, while I opted for the tartare. The staff was very attentive and the quality of the ingredients was noticeable in every bite. We finished off the meal with coffee and cantucci soaked in Vin Santo! Pure joy.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Il Ceppo Toscano in San Gimignano – where every dish tells a story.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Porta delle Fonti, Piazza Sant'Agostino, and the Galleria d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea Raffaele De Grada. I'm particularly excited about the gallery, as I've heard it features some interesting works by local artists. We'll also be trying out Gustavo Mescita Vini Enoteca.

Today was a reminder that the true essence of a place is often found in its hidden corners and the stories of its people. San Gimignano is more than just a collection of towers; it's a living, breathing community with a rich history and a vibrant culture. And I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience it all, one step at a time. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, opening our eyes to new perspectives and deepening our appreciation for the world around us.