Historic Centre of San Gimignano, Medieval town center in Tuscany, Italy.
The Historic Centre of San Gimignano is a medieval town core in Tuscany with thirteen surviving towers rising above terracotta roofs. Narrow streets and stone buildings occupy the space within 13th-century defensive walls.
The town grew in importance during the 11th century as a key stop along the Via Francigena, a pilgrimage route running from France to Rome. This trading position shaped its development and drew wealth to the community.
The cathedral displays elaborate frescoes depicting scenes from the Old and New Testament, painted by artists of the Sienese school. These artworks define the interior of the sanctuary and tell biblical stories across its walls.
The town center is easy to explore on foot, with open streets and level ground on most main routes. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as some side streets are uneven and the terrain slopes upward toward the town edges.
About 72 tower-houses once stood here, built by wealthy families to display their economic power. Today only thirteen towers remain, reflecting how these proud structures were lost over the centuries.
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