Torre dei Cugnanesi, Medieval tower house in San Gimignano, Italy.
Torre dei Cugnanesi is a stone and brick dwelling tower that rises as one of the tallest structures in San Gimignano and features traditional corbels. The building contains multiple levels, with the ground floor originally housing workshops while upper floors served as protected living quarters.
The tower was built in the 13th century by a local family and formed part of the defensive system connected to an ancient gate. This structure documents the medieval period when such towers were needed to protect a flourishing city.
The tower embodies the wealth of a local family and shows how clans in San Gimignano competed for status through building height. This vertical architecture reflects the pride medieval families expressed in their stone structures.
The tower stands near the historic city walls and is part of the walk through the medieval streets of San Gimignano. Visiting is best done during daylight hours to see the structure and facade details clearly.
This is the only medieval tower in San Gimignano built beyond the original protective wall that enclosed the historic center. This unusual location shows how the city grew beyond its first boundaries while the family established their presence outside the walls.
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