Spedale di Santa Fina, Museum complex in San Gimignano, Italy

The Spedale di Santa Fina is a historic complex in San Gimignano originally founded in 1253 as a hospital and today houses several sections: the former pharmacy with ancient containers, an archaeological museum with Etruscan and Roman objects, and a modern art gallery. The buildings are constructed from stone and brick and have been carefully restored while preserving their original Renaissance architecture.

Founded in 1253 through devotional donations, the Spedale di Santa Fina was enlarged and modified over the centuries. Its sober late-Renaissance façade preserves frescoed lunettes by Sebastiano Mainardi and two polychrome marble busts by Pietro Torrigiani, made in Rome in 1498 for canon Stefano Coppi. The former pharmacy joined the Civic Museum in 1906, the archaeological museum opened in the loggia in 1977, and the De Grada gallery opened in June 2002.

Santa Fina was a young saint from the area whose name and story shape the artworks and reputation of the hospital. Her image appears in various works throughout the complex and remains an important symbol for the community.

The complex is located in San Gimignano's old town and is easily reached on foot; check opening times before visiting as it closes on Tuesdays. Plan several hours to explore all sections and view the various displays at a leisurely pace.

The Spezieria was acquired by the Civic Museum in 1906, and its original recipe books are displayed alongside the ceramic and glass containers. In the garden outside, plants once used for both food and medicine are grown, recreating the pharmacy's original setting.