San Miniato (PI) - Tower of Federico II - Oratory of Saints Sebastian and Rocco - Tuscany
- Tuttitaly
- May 28, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
A place rich in history and famous historical figures in the world, but in addition to this, today, San Miniato is unique thanks to its truffles, especially the white one! Together with Alba and Aqualagna, it is among the first in the world to produce the delicious white truffle, rare to find but delicious to eat... #tuttitaly
The village of San Miniato, located on a hill between Florence and Pisa, has an ancient history dating back to the Etruscan-Roman era. Its territory is famous for its exquisite white truffle, which has become a symbol of local gastronomy.
Historical background
During the Middle Ages, the village, known as San Miniato al Tedesco, experienced a period of great popularity. Otto I of Saxony chose it as the center of imperial administration in 962, while Frederick II of Swabia designated it as a collection point for taxes in central Italy in 1218.
San Miniato is also an essential stop on the Via Francigena, the route followed by Sigeric on his journey back to Canterbury.
What to visit
On top of the hill stands the Rocca di Federico II, which completes the castle's defensive complex. The tower, built by the Emperor between 1217 and 1221, has become the town's symbol.
The Cathedral, dating back to 1200, features a uniquely decorated facade with ceramic discs depicting the constellations of Ursa Major and Ursa Minor.
Among the other religious attractions in the village is the Convent of San Francesco, which, according to tradition, was directly donated by nobles from San Miniato to Saint Francis of Assisi during his stay at the nearby Abbey of Santa Gonda.
The Church of Santo Stefano and San Michele, built in the 12th century based on a private chapel of the Mangiatori family, houses a wooden crucifix by Pietro Cavallini from the 15th century, frescoes depicting the four Evangelists by Domenico Brogi, mosaic stained glass windows, and frescoes by Divo Lotti.
Comments