Gimignano

Gimignano, more commonly known as San Gimignano, is a hill town in Tuscany, central Italy. It lies in the Val d’Elsa in the province of Siena, about 50 kilometers southwest of Florence. The town is celebrated for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its distinctive skyline formed by towers that rise above the historic center.

History and towers: The site has ancient origins and grew as a waypoint on the Via Francigena, the pilgrimage route to Rome. In the 12th to 14th centuries, rival noble families built tall towers to demonstrate wealth and power. At its height San Gimignano reportedly had as many as 72 towers; today 14 towers remain, including the tallest Torre Grossa, which visitors can climb. The decline of the towers began in the 14th century amid political realignments and the plague, leading to greater consolidation around Siena and other centers.

Landmarks and culture: The Piazza della Cisterna is a triangular square featuring a medieval well and surrounding stone houses. The Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta (the Duomo) houses a collection of frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries. Narrow, winding streets still pass between churches, towers, and palazzi, reflecting the town’s medieval urban form. The town serves as a focal point for art, history, and Tuscan culture, attracting visitors year-round.

Economy and wine: Tourism is the primary economic activity in modern San Gimignano. The surrounding countryside produces Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a noted white wine with DOCG status, along with olive oil and saffron.

World Heritage status and population: In 1990, the Historic Centre of San Gimignano was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional medieval architecture and preserved urban landscape. The town has a population of a few thousand residents, with a larger influx of visitors during the tourist season.