san-gimignanoSo here we are at San Gimignano, the City of Towers. During the medieval times, rich families who lived in the Italian walled towns would erect high towers to compete with rich families in other towns. Apart from being a status symbol, the tower would serve as lodgings and fortresses.

In cities such as Florence most of the towers no longer exist because of wars or urban renewal. San Gimignano has saved thirteen towers of varying heights and it is for these towers that San Gimignano is well known.

Wherever you walk in these ancient towns, there are really interesting buildings with all manner of accoutrements.

I love how the public buildings have beautiful mosaic tiled  pictures and painted pictures, generally of the Madonna and the Saints, in places where people simply gather to talk.  And not a sign of graffiti, how refreshing.

We have spent a pleasant afternoon meandering around the town and all too soon it is time to leave and head back to Florence.




Filed under: Italy • Tuscany

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