Sightseeing walk in San Gimignano

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As I progressed with my studies and gained a deeper understanding of Florence and Tuscany, I gradually realised that the historical periods I most enjoy reading and learning about are the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
Every tour guide has their own background. Many of my colleagues, for example, are trained archaeologists and naturally have a particular interest in ancient history, artefacts and customs. I have always been fascinated by the idea that an object can survive for seven or eight hundred years and still be here with us today.
And I could hardly have found a more “medieval” Tuscan town than San Gimignano.
I first began studying the town at the request of my guests, as a visit to San Gimignano is often combined with exploring Siena. I learned about its history, traditions, saints and towers from local Italian tour guides, experts and historians.
And the towers are, of course, the first thing visitors notice when they arrive in San Gimignano. They proudly proclaim the glory of a long-lost era.
Once we enter the town, we discover an almost untouched, beautifully preserved medieval world of gates, defensive walls, tower houses, narrow cobbled streets, squares and wells. What is this, if not magic?
During our sightseeing walk, we visit the old Town Hall and the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in San Gimignano. We explore its art gallery, the Podestà’s Hall and the council chamber named after Dante, and we also climb the tower itself. Those who would rather avoid the stairs or are uncomfortable with heights can visit the museum housed on the lower floors instead.
The Cathedral’s magnificent frescoes tell the story of the town’s most famous saint, while its defensive walls recall the period of Florentine rule.
San Gimignano is also famous for Vernaccia, its characteristic dry white wine. A wine tasting can also be arranged as part of the tour.

For further details, please contact me.

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