Set on three sweet hills along the banks of the River Arno, about half way between Florence and Siena, San Miniato is an ancient hamlet of Longobard origin.

Set on three sweet hills along the banks of the River Arno, about half way between Florence and Siena, San Miniato is an ancient hamlet of Longobard origin. The town is rich in historical testimonies and in particular churches, convents, orators, chapels, abbeys. Very impressive is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and San Genesio dating back to the 12th century and sadly known for the massacre here consumed during the Second World War. On the square of the cathedral are also the Bishop’s Palace and the Palace of the Imperial Vicars, two historic buildings of great artistic and architectural value.

However, the symbol of San Miniato is a tall medieval tower built by Frederick II in addition to the ancient castle that already dominated the hamlet before the year 1000. Originally from San Miniato was the family of Napoleon Bonaparte, he himself visited the town at least on two occasions. The territory of San Miniato is particularly famous for the abundance of white truffles. This earth product grows spontaneously in the woods surrounding the village and is highly sought after by local cuisine. To celebrate this specialty every year is organized the National Market of White Truffle.

Photo:I, Sailko, San miniato, veduta 08, CC BY-SA 3.0