A municipality that deserves this recognition because it represents a true cradle of art and tradition in the heart of Tuscany. A story that develops starting from the Etruscan civilization, touching the most significant currents, styles and artists becoming the custodian of works of undisputed prestige. The Dome, the Palazzo Comunale, the museums and the many churches that pin point the historical centre are the coffers of that art.

The Duomo or Chiesa Collegiata, in unmistakeable Romanic style, hosts the works of the Siena and Florentine school, the frescoes of renaissance painters such as Il Ghirlandaio and Benozzo Gozzoli, the series of frescoes of the "Judgement" of Siena born Taddeo di Bartolo, wooden sculptures of Jacopo della Quercia and the altar of Benedetto da Maiano.

The Duomo is not the only evidence of the works and geniality of great artists. In the Palazzo Comunale, where the Museo Civico is based, works by Filippino Lippi, Pinturicchio and  the "Crucifix" painted by Coppo di Marcovaldo.

The Chiesa di Sant'Agostino is made precious by the cycle of frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli, the terracotta floor made by Andrea Della Robbia and the table behind the great altar made in 1483 by Piero del Pollaiolo.

San Gimignano offers other surprises that are not exactly artistic, but still "tasty". The area in fact is recognised DOC production area for the Vernaccia di San Gimignano, white wine, as well as being known for the production of saffron (I.G.P. recognition paperwork is underway), a product which has always distinguished San Gimignano economy starting from the Middle Ages, just like the Vernaccia, tasted and appreciated already at Lorenzo il Magnifico's court.
(Photo: Studio Album Fotografico - Livorno)

March.2003

Municipality of San Gimignano (In Italian)
Province of Siena (In Italian)