Torre Grossa
- San Gimignano - Visit the Torre Grossa
- Historical Overview of the Torre Grossa
- The Torre Grossa Today
- The Civic Museum
- The Pinacoteca
- Piazza della Cisterna
- Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta
- Palazzo del Podestà
- Piazza del Duomo
- Sant'Agostino Church
- Rocca of Montestaffoli
- Vernaccia di San Gimignano
- Insider Tip
San Gimignano - Visit the Torre Grossa
San Gimignano is a small medieval hill town in Tuscany, Italy. It is located about 50 kilometers southwest of Florence and is known for its well-preserved towers, which give it the nickname "the Manhattan of the Middle Ages." The town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990.
San Gimignano was founded in the 10th century by the Etruscans, who built a fortress on the hilltop. The town later became a free commune and was ruled by a series of powerful families. In the 13th and 14th centuries, San Gimignano reached its peak of prosperity and power. During this time, the town's population grew to over 10,000 and it became one of the most important commercial centers in Tuscany.
Despite being conquered several times by rival cities and the Black Death of 1348, San Gimignano managed to preserve its medieval appearance. The town's walls, towers, and churches have been remarkably well-preserved, and it is a popular tourist destination for those who want to experience the atmosphere of a real medieval town.
Historical Overview of the Torre Grossa
The Torre Grossa, whose name means "Great Tower" in Italian, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 13th century. It was built as a bell tower for the Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta, the town's main church, and was completed in 13
The tower served as a symbol of the town's wealth and power, and it was also used as a watchtower to spot approaching enemies. Over the centuries, the Torre Grossa has undergone several modifications and restorations, but it has always remained a prominent landmark of San Gimignano.
The architectural style of the Torre Grossa is typical of the Gothic period, and it features a square base, a crenellated top, and several arched windows. The tower is made of local sandstone, which gives it a warm and inviting appearance.
The Torre Grossa Today
Today, the Torre Grossa is a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic vistas of the medieval town and its iconic towers. The interior of the tower is home to various exhibitions and museums, making it a great place to learn about the history and culture of San Gimignano.
The Torre Grossa is open to the public from 9 am to 7 pm daily, and admission costs €5 per person. It is also possible to purchase a combined ticket that includes entrance to the Torre Grossa and other museums in the town. The tower is easily accessible for visitors of all ages, with stairs and an elevator available for those who prefer not to climb the steps.
The Civic Museum
The Civic Museum is located in the Palazzo del Popolo and houses a collection of artifacts that tell the story of San Gimignano's past. The museum is divided into several sections, each of which focuses on a different aspect of the town's history.
One section of the museum is dedicated to the medieval period, and it features exhibits on the town's fortifications, its government, and its economy. Another section of the museum focuses on the Renaissance period, and it includes exhibits on the town's art, its architecture, and its culture.
One of the most interesting exhibits in the museum is a model of San Gimignano as it appeared in the 13th century. The model shows the town's many towers, its walls, and its gates. It is a fascinating glimpse into the past, and it helps visitors to understand how the town has changed over the centuries.
Temporary exhibitions are also held at the museum throughout the year, so be sure to check the museum's website for more information.
The Pinacoteca
The Pinacoteca, or Picture Gallery, is housed in the former Palazzo Pubblico, located in the heart of San Gimignano's historic center. The gallery displays a remarkable collection of paintings and frescoes from the 12th to the 16th centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the town.
Among the highlights of the Pinacoteca are the beautiful frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli, depicting scenes from the Old Testament and the life of Saint Augustine. Other notable works include paintings by Lippo Memmi, Taddeo di Bartolo, and Filippino Lippi. The gallery also houses a collection of sacred art, including reliquaries, sculptures, and illuminated manuscripts.
The Pinacoteca is a must-see for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It offers a unique opportunity to admire the works of some of the most renowned artists of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and artistic significance of San Gimignano.
Piazza della Cisterna
Piazza della Cisterna is one of the most famous and beautiful squares in Tuscany. It is located in the heart of San Gimignano, a small medieval town perched on a hilltop in the Tuscan countryside, between Florence and Siena.
The square is dominated by a large circular cistern, which was built in the 13th century to provide water for the town. The cistern is surrounded by a series of medieval buildings, including the Palazzo del Comune, the Palazzo della Podestà, and the Torre Grossa.
Piazza della Cisterna is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It is a great place to sit and people-watch, admire the beautiful architecture, or enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many cafés and restaurants that line the square.
The square is also home to a number of important historical events. In 1215, the Guelph and Ghibelline factions clashed in a battle in the square, which resulted in the destruction of several buildings. In 1348, the Black Death swept through San Gimignano, killing over half of the population.
Piazza della Cisterna is a must-see for anyone visiting San Gimignano. It is a beautiful and historic square that offers a glimpse into the town's rich past.
Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta
Overlooking the central Piazza Duomo, the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta is one of San Gimignano's most iconic landmarks and a testament to the town's medieval grandeur. This stunning Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece, consecrated in 1148 and later remodelled in the 13th and 15th centuries, boasts a majestic façade adorned with intricate carvings, delicate frescoes, and a mesmerizing rose window that casts a warm glow on the square below.
The interior of the church is equally awe-inspiring, boasting an impressive nave lined with elegant Gothic arches and soaring vaults. Admire the exquisite frescoes that adorn the walls and ceiling, depicting scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints, created by renowned artists such as Bartolo di Fredi, Benozzo Gozzoli, and Taddeo di Bartolo.
Don't miss the breathtaking 14th-century polyptych altarpiece by Lippo Memmi, a masterpiece of Gothic art that depicts the Madonna and Child surrounded by saints and angels. Other highlights include the 13th-century wooden crucifix by Coppo di Marcovaldo, the 14th-century frescoes by Giovanni di Bartolommeo Cristiani, and the 15th-century stained glass windows that bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors.
Palazzo del Podestà
The Palazzo del Podestà, also known as the Palazzo Vecchio, is a historic palace located in the heart of San Gimignano's Piazza del Duomo and represents one of the town's most significant architectural landmarks. Built in the 13th century, it served as the seat of the Podestà, the city's highest-ranking official during the medieval period. Its imposing structure and distinctive crenellated tower are testament to the power and authority of the city government at the time.
The palace's façade is characterized by its rusticated stonework and arched windows, while its interior features a courtyard with a well and a grand staircase leading to the upper floors. Over the centuries, the Palazzo del Podestà has undergone several renovations and additions, reflecting the changing needs and tastes of its various occupants. Today, it houses the Museo Civico, which showcases a rich collection of artifacts and artworks that narrate the history and culture of San Gimignano.
Piazza del Duomo
The Piazza del Duomo is the main square of San Gimignano and the heart of the historic center. It is a charming and lively square, surrounded by medieval buildings, including the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the Palazzo del Podestà.
The square is dominated by the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in San Gimignano. The tower offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside. In the center of the square is the Fonte della Piazza, a beautiful fountain that dates back to the 13th century.
The Piazza del Duomo is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of this medieval town. There are several cafés and restaurants in the square, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the sights.
The Piazza del Duomo is also a popular venue for events and festivals. During the summer months, the square is often filled with music and entertainment.
Sant'Agostino Church
The Sant'Agostino Church is a 13th-century Gothic church located in the heart of San Gimignano's historic center. Its austere and imposing façade is characterized by a pointed arch portal flanked by two blind arches, and a beautiful rose window with radiating spokes.
The interior of the church is adorned with a series of noteworthy artworks, including the wooden crucifix by Benedetto da Maiano, placed above the high altar, and the fresco of the Madonna della Rosa by Benozzo Gozzoli, which portrays the Virgin Mary with the Child and two angels holding the emblem of the Augustinian order.
In the sacristy of the church, visitors can admire a collection of precious paintings and liturgical objects, including a wooden sculpture of the Madonna and Child dating back to the 15th century.
Rocca of Montestaffoli
Overlooking the town from a hilltop location, the imposing Rocca of Montestaffoli is a must-see for visitors to San Gimignano. Built in the 14th century as a defensive outpost, the fortress played a crucial role in protecting the town from enemy attacks. Today, it stands as a testament to the town's rich history and offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The Rocca's imposing stone walls and towers have been meticulously restored, allowing visitors to explore its various chambers and fortifications. Inside, they can learn about the fortress's past through interactive displays and exhibits, gaining insights into the lives of the soldiers and civilians who once occupied it.
The highlight of a visit to the Rocca is undoubtedly the ascent to its panoramic terrace. From here, visitors are treated to uninterrupted views of San Gimignano's iconic towers, the rolling hills of Tuscany, and the distant peaks of the Apennines. It's a truly unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of this enchanting town.
Vernaccia di San Gimignano
Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a white wine produced in the area surrounding the town of San Gimignano. It is made from the Vernaccia grape, which is believed to have originated in the region. The wine has been produced in San Gimignano for centuries and is mentioned in documents dating back to the 13th century.
Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a light-bodied wine with a high acidity and a slightly bitter finish. It has aromas of citrus, green apple, and white flowers. The wine is best served chilled and pairs well with seafood, pasta dishes, and white meat.
There are a number of wineries in the San Gimignano area that produce Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Visitors to the town can take a tour of the vineyards and sample the wine at the wineries. There is also a wine festival held in San Gimignano every year in May.
If you are a fan of white wine, then you should definitely try Vernaccia di San Gimignano. It is a unique and delicious wine that is sure to please your palate.
Insider Tip
The best time to visit San Gimignano is during the shoulder seasons, spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. The town is also beautiful in the winter when it is covered in snow. To get to San Gimignano, you can take a train from Florence or Siena. The train station is located about 5 kilometers from the town center. From the station, you can take a bus or taxi to the town center.
There are various accommodation options in San Gimignano, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. If you are looking for a place to stay with a view, I recommend the Hotel Torre Grossa. This hotel is located on the top of the Torre Grossa and offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
