San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy

San Gimignano is a walled village in Tuscany that is famous for its medieval architecture and tower houses, which are stunningly evident in the skyline. It was three years ago this week when we visited this beautiful village and we were instantly charmed by its unique character and warmth.

There are many things to do and see in the village including Spezieria di Santa Fina, a reconstruction of an ancient pharmacy. The Duomo di San Gimignano is a stunning place to wander and take photos. You’ll find some lovely frescos here. There were 72 towers in the village at one point, but only 15 remain today. Of those, only one, Tower Grosse is open to the public. Built in the early 1300s, it is the tallest tower in the village. You will climb 218 stairs to reach the top, but your effort will be rewarded with amazing views of the village and surrounding countryside.

The village is a unique place to wander and take photos or do a sketch like theTravelsketcher.

We stayed at Agriturismo II Casolare di Bucciano, a working vineyard located in the quiet countryside not far from the village. This historic farmhouse has beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and village.

A delicious breakfast is included with the price of the room. Dinner is also available on certain evenings for an additional fee. We enjoyed a very filling and delicious meal one evening during our stay that included olive oil made on site from their homegrown olives. Tomatoes and basil from their garden were part of our meal as was a bottle of wine made from grapes grown in their vineyard. We enjoyed conversation with travelers from Holland and China which was the perfect pairing for the evening. I highly recommend staying at an agriturismo when visiting Tuscany, it is an enriching experience.

I love visiting Europe in October when the crowds have thinned and the weather is still warm. It was sunny and in the 70s when we visited three years ago. I hope to visit again someday soon, when we are able to travel again.

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Tricia