Colle di Val d'Elsa, Medieval hilltop town in Province of Siena, Italy
Description
Colle di Val d'Elsa sits in two distinct parts: the medieval upper town with narrow streets and historic buildings on a hilltop, and a modern lower section along the Elsa River. A public elevator links the two areas.
History
The settlement developed in medieval times as a strategic point between Florence and Siena. Its location made it a contested place during local conflicts that shaped its history.
Culture
Glass production has shaped how locals work and trade for generations, visible in shops and small workshops throughout the town. The craft remains woven into daily conversations and the local economy.
Practical
An elevator at the lower car park provides easy access to the upper historic district. The compact size makes it simple to explore on foot once you arrive at the top.
Did you know?
The region became known worldwide for crystal production and supplies much of Europe's output. This craft tradition arrived relatively recently, only developing into a major industry in the last century.
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Parco Fluviale dell'Alta Val d'Elsa
1.7 km
Le Caldane
3.6 km
Colle di Val d'Elsa Cathedral
508 m
Diborrato Waterfall
2.1 km
Santa Maria a Castello
5.9 km
Abbazia di Santa Maria Assunta a Conèo
5.1 km
Palazzo del Monte dei Paschi di Siena
104 m
Torre di Arnolfo
364 m
Santa Maria Assunta
11.2 km
Il Baluardo
265 m
Sant'Agostino
197 m
San Marziale
2.2 km
San Niccolò
11.2 km
Porta Nova
1.2 km
Santi Ippolito e Cassiano
5.3 km
Santa Maria in Canonica
374 m
Museo del Cristallo
107 m
Palazzo Luci
622 m
Civic and Holy Art Museum
1.1 km
Santa Maria delle Grazie
2.3 km
Santa Caterina
860 m
Palazzo del Comune
441 m
San Francesco
860 m
Teatro dei Varii
432 mHotel Palazzo San Lorenzo & Spa
1.1 km
Santuario della Beata Vergine del Renaio
211 m
Abbazia di Spugna
513 m
Santi Maria e Gervasio a Marmoraia
10.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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