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The Mangnificent Skyline of San Gimignano

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San Gimignano is a midieval walled Tuscan village midway between Pisa and Siena. It came to prominance in th 13th century as it was on the main route from Europe to Rome. It has become very busy during the day - and it is easy to understand why with the beautiful vista and the restored middle aged atmosphere. My suggestion would be stay at least for 2 - 3 days as the atmosphere truly changed in the evening once the maurading tourists left. It is good location to recharge the batteries and enjoy the good life. It is also a great place to use as a base to explore Volterra, Poggibonsi, and monteriggioni.

Favourite spots:

Our favorite locations are the Piazza La Cisterna, the countless medieval streets, the Colligieta, and the Museo Civico. The Piazza della Cisterna main feature is a well which was first used in the 13th century. It is quite small byt has a small store to pick up meat and cheese, several gelato stands as well as some streetside cafes. The Museo Civico is the museum in town. It also gives acces to one of many of San Gimignano's many towers that were built 700 years ago as status symbols by the ruling class.

What's really great:

We loved the laid back feel and utter beauty of the place. It was full of history and reminders of the past. Our hotel La Cisterna is highly recommeded. Try to get one of the 4 or 5 rooms with balconies that provide a panaromic view of the town and the surrounding valley Valle d'Elsa. The town is probably more beatiful than another fanous hilltown called Cortona - yet somehow lacks the small town quaintness that Cortona has....at least until the Sun goes down.

Accommodations:

The Hotel La Cisterna
Piazza della Cisterna, 24
0577.940.328
www.sangimignano.com/lacisterna

Restaurants:

The terrace restaurant at La Cisterna

Published on Tuesday October 14th, 2003 by murrayskinner

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