【World Heritage Site】What is the historic centre of San Gimignano?｜A town lined with beautiful towers!

Known as the "Town of Beautiful Towers," San Gimignano is a small World Heritage town in Italy's Tuscany region that retains a strong atmosphere of the Middle Ages. The town spreads across a gentle hill, and its towers can be seen from afar.

Today, only 14 towers remain in San Gimignano. While that may seem like a lot, it is said that during its peak, the town had over 70 towers, which were symbols of power struggles at the time.

This medieval town, now a World Heritage Site, offers more than just towers—there are many other sights to see. Let us introduce you to the full charm of San Gimignano, a treasure from the past that lives on today.

What Is the Historic Centre of San Gimignano?

Located about 37 km southwest of Florence, San Gimignano is a small town surrounded by medieval walls that preserves its historical scenery to this day. Many buildings from the 12th to 14th centuries still remain, and the entire historic district was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1990. During the Middle Ages, San Gimignano flourished as a key hub for distribution, being situated at the crossroads of trade routes. It was also a wealthy town, drawing numerous pilgrims to the basilica dedicated to Saint Gimignano (from whom the town takes its name), and it became home to many artists, earning a reputation as a town of art.

In its heyday, towers were built in San Gimignano as symbols of power, with rival families competing to build the tallest. Eventually, however, the town declined due to internal conflicts. Ironically, this decline spared the town from wartime destruction, allowing its beautiful streetscape to remain intact. Today, San Gimignano has regained the world’s attention as a preserved medieval town recognized as a World Heritage Site.

Despite its tumultuous history, San Gimignano is now a renowned tourist destination celebrated for its towers. The dense collection of towers offers a stunning glimpse into the charm of the Middle Ages.

Access to the Historic Centre of San Gimignano

The recommended way to get to San Gimignano is by bus from Florence. While there is no direct bus to San Gimignano, only one transfer is needed, and the process is simple. The transfer at Poggibonsi Station is smooth, with good connections and experienced drivers. Poggibonsi Station also has restrooms and kiosks.

The travel time is approximately 50 minutes from Florence to Poggibonsi, and 20 minutes from Poggibonsi to San Gimignano. Though you can take the train from Florence to Poggibonsi, train services are less frequent than buses and offer poorer connections. Still, if you enjoy rail travel, it’s a viable option.

If you're touring other areas, such as heading to Siena after San Gimignano, a one-way ticket will suffice. But if you’re doing a round-trip from Florence to San Gimignano, it’s convenient to buy a return ticket in advance. Be sure to get a timetable so you can plan your return trip. When boarding, confirm with the driver that the bus stops at San Gimignano, as some express buses travel directly from Florence to Siena without stopping.

Recommended Spot in San Gimignano ①: Piazza della Cisterna

As you walk down the main street Via San Giovanni, you’ll reach Piazza della Cisterna. This triangular square, with a well (cisterna) at its center from which it gets its name, is a bustling place where you can fully enjoy the unique scenery of San Gimignano.

Although it’s a medieval square, what you’ll want to check out first is a gelato shop that has won the title of Gelato Champion. Featured in various media, this shop offers a wide selection of gelato made with carefully selected ingredients, including flavors using San Gimignano’s famous local wine and chocolates. There's always a line, but it’s absolutely worth the wait—don’t miss the chance to try it.

San Gimignano Highlight ②: Piazza del Duomo and the Duomo

Beyond Piazza della Cisterna lies Piazza del Duomo, a square surrounded by the Duomo (Collegiate Church), the Palazzo del Popolo, and several towers. Seven of the 14 remaining towers stand here, making it a must-visit spot when exploring the World Heritage buildings of San Gimignano.

The Duomo, always bustling with visitors, is a historically significant structure built in 1148. It houses numerous masterpieces from the Sienese School, which flourished in San Gimignano. The church features many religious frescoes such as scenes from the Old Testament and the Last Judgment, offering plenty to admire—it’s truly worth a visit.
The building interior is divided into two main sections: the nave and the altar. The altar dates back to the 15th century, while the building’s facade was renovated in the 19th century. Noticing the contrast between architectural eras adds an extra layer of interest.

San Gimignano Highlight ③: Palazzo del Popolo and Torre Grossa

The Palazzo del Popolo, known for having Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in town at about 54 meters, serves as San Gimignano's city hall. The third floor houses the civic museum, which features beautiful frescoes and valuable artworks dating from the 13th to 17th centuries—an unmissable World Heritage highlight.

From the top of Torre Grossa, the highest point in San Gimignano, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the cityscape below. While wandering through the historic district with its beautiful buildings is enjoyable, the view from the tower offers a stunning perspective that shouldn't be missed.

San Gimignano Highlight ④: Church of Sant’Agostino

At the northernmost part of the San Gimignano World Heritage site lies the Church of Sant’Agostino, located near the San Matteo Gate. With its simple exterior and aged appearance, the church conveys the weight of its long history. Built in the 12th century, it's one of the oldest structures among San Gimignano’s numerous heritage sites. Although modest on the outside with Romanesque architecture, the church's interior boasts remarkably well-preserved and vividly colorful frescoes.

After admiring the exquisite artworks, don’t forget to visit the courtyard! Surrounded by beautiful arches and palm trees, the garden offers a peaceful, soothing atmosphere. The contrast between the church’s exterior and interior makes it one of San Gimignano’s most recommended spots.

◎ Summary

What do you think of San Gimignano, the World Heritage site with beautifully preserved medieval streets? The historic district of San Gimignano, where countless ancient structures still stand, is a rare and precious sight—definitely worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.

Simply strolling through the historic district will capture your heart. Every corner of San Gimignano retains a medieval charm. Even if it takes some extra time to reach, this small World Heritage town offers beauty that will truly leave you satisfied.

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【World Heritage Site】What is the historic centre of San Gimignano?｜A town lined with beautiful towers!