Cultural Exploration and Relaxation in San Gimignano

Echoes of the Past

Today felt like stepping directly into a history book. San Gimignano, with its skyline of medieval towers, has a way of transporting you. Hans and I set out to explore some of the town's lesser-known treasures, eager to uncover more of its rich past.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Ristorante Dorandò. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries filled the air as we settled into a cozy corner. I savored a cappuccino while Hans enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and cured meats. The restaurant's ambiance, with its rustic decor and gentle morning light, was the perfect start to our explorations.


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

Fueled and ready, our first stop was the Remains of the Church of Saint Francis. What stands today is the travertine facade in the Pisan-Luccan Romanesque style. The church has origins dating back to the 13th century, serving as a place for pilgrims along the Via Francigena. The facade with its arches is quite striking. It's amazing to think that this was once a stop for those making their way along the pilgrimage route. Standing there, I imagined the countless travelers who had sought solace and rest within those walls.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of the Remains of the Church of Saint Francis in San Gimignano, a captivating glimpse into Tuscany's rich heritage.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of history.

Next on our itinerary was the iconic Torre del Mangia in nearby Siena. As we approached Piazza del Campo, the tower's impressive height became apparent. Built in the 14th century, the Torre del Mangia was designed to be as tall as the Siena Cathedral, symbolizing the equal power of the church and the state. We learned that the tower got its name from its first bell ringer, Giovanni di Balduccio, who was known for squandering his earnings and was nicknamed 'Mangiaguadagni' ('profit eater').

Climbing the Torre del Mangia was an experience in itself. The narrow, winding staircase seemed to go on forever, but the anticipation of the view kept us going. Finally, we emerged at the top, and the panorama was breathtaking. From 87 meters high, we could see the entire city of Siena spread out before us, with its terracotta rooftops, historic buildings, and the rolling Tuscan hills in the distance. The effort was definitely worth it. Hans, with his love for engineering, was particularly impressed by the tower's construction and the ingenuity of the medieval builders.

For lunch, we chose Ristorante Sosta sulla Francigena San Gimignano, a charming spot known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. We shared a plate of pici pasta with wild boar ragu, a local specialty, and a selection of artisanal cheeses. The flavors were rich and satisfying, perfectly complementing the stunning view from the restaurant's terrace. The restaurant is just outside the walls of San Gimignano, offering a lovely view. I made a mental note to try to recreate the pasta dish back in Berlin; it was that good.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Sosta sulla Francigena in San Gimignano – a culinary delight amidst stunning Tuscan scenery.

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in some gelato at Bar Gelateria Combattenti. This place has been around since 1924. I opted for the saffron gelato, a unique flavor that San Gimignano is known for, while Hans chose a classic pistachio. As we savored our gelato, we strolled through the town's charming streets, soaking in the atmosphere and watching the locals go about their day. It's these simple moments that often become the most cherished memories.


Discover the sweet flavors of Italy at Bar Gelateria Combattenti, a charming gelato and frozen yogurt bar in historic San Gimignano.

Dinner was at Il Ceppo Toscano, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Tuscan dishes. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, with exposed stone walls and soft lighting. We started with a selection of local cured meats and cheeses, followed by a hearty Florentine steak cooked to perfection. The steak was tender and flavorful, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. For dessert, we shared a classic tiramisu, the perfect ending to a perfect meal.


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

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared. San Gimignano had truly captured our hearts with its timeless beauty and rich history. Tomorrow, on our final day, we plan to visit Piazza della Cisterna and a local viewpoint, hoping to capture a few last stunning photographs before we leave [Piazza della Cisterna, Viewpoint]. It's hard to believe our Tuscan adventure is almost over. I am already looking forward to returning someday. I am so grateful that Hans and I could share this experience together. The memories we've made here will stay with us for a lifetime.


Experience the heart of San Gimignano at La Cisterna, featuring family-friendly amenities, local culinary delights, and breathtaking views.