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San Miniato is an enchanting little town located in the beautiful Tuscany region.

The first settlement in the area go back to the Paleolithic era. Both Etruscans and Romans have lived here. During the medieval period the city was crossed by the via Francigena, the most important route among Rome and Northern Europe. Many armies passed by together with merchants and travelers. Under the Frederick Barbarossa domination the city was fortified with walls and towers. During the first half of the 13^th century San Miniato passed under the Florentine dominion until 1860 when it was annexed in the newly born Italian Kingdom.

This small village has a lot to offers to its visitors. Famous is the 13^th century Tower of Frederick, from which it is possible to enjoy a breath-taking view of the Valdarno. The tower was destroyed by the Nazi during the Second World War but luckily it was rebuilt in the late ’50. The Cathedral of Sant’Assunta and San Genesio, also simply known as Duomo di San Miniato, has a unique façade decorated with majolica bowls. The church was initially built in Romanesque style, it was later remodeled several times, and today we can see also a Gothic and Renaissance influence. The Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall) was built during the 14^th century and has a beautiful great hall. The building is still used as San Miniato’s City Hall! Worth a visit are the Church of San Francesco and the Church of San Domenico both built between the 13^th and 14^th century. Visitors of San Miniato can also enjoy the view of many beautiful Palazzi built during the Renaissance Period by the local aristocratic families.