San Gimignano and its medieval towers

San Gimignano and its medieval towers

Exploring San Gimignano, retracing the path of the many merchants, pilgrims and travelers along the Via Francigena who visited the country of the towers, now a UNESCO heritage site. The urban route from Porta San Giovanni provides a walk through the main streets of the town, along the old ramparts, to the medieval sources, the Piazza della Cisterna and the Collegiate, ending the visit to the church of St. Augustine. You can taste the Vernaccia, the excellent white wine that was produced in San Gimignano as early as the thirteenth century.

The land of "gallo nero"

Border area between Siena and Florence, the Chianti has always been one of the most respected territory in the world for its scenery, castles and especially the excellent wine. Three towns of the ancient “Chianti League”, which had the black rooster as a symbol, are located in the province of Siena. You can visit Radda in Chianti, which still retains sections of walls, towers and the typical Praetorian Palace adorned with coats of arms. Gaiole in Chianti is the cradle of Ricasoli’s Family, the dynasty which gave birth to the wine Chianti. Castellina in Chianti, of Etruscan origins, preserves important artifacts in its Archaeological Museum. Radda, Gaiole and Castellina are excellent points of departure and arrival to discover the Chianti area, with churches and villages as Ama, Volpaia, Vertine, rich in history and tradition. Do not miss to stop at one of the famous castles where you can visit the cellar, deepening the knowledge of the history and production of Chianti.