The medieval villages of Tuscany, unlike the cities and the most important medieval centers, in many cases represent an unknown treasure.

The medieval villages in Tuscany

In the charming villages the medieval footprint it constitutes a track that is immediately recognizable, can be seen in the city walls with towers, often still intact, and their imposing access doors.

The medieval villages in Tuscany show the marks of their centuries-old history, history is everywhere, in the roofs and facades of the houses, often tower houses that have preserved the traces of this incomparable legacy.

Itineraries through medieval villages in Tuscany

Tuscany is a land rich in charm and small villages to visit.

Routes between the characteristic medieval villages in Tuscany could be many, from Maremma to Mugello, from Casentino to Empoli.

Right in Empoli territory we want to suggest two unforgettable itineraries.

The medieval villages close to Empoli
Empoli is known for being the birthplace of the painter Jacopo Carucci, known as Pontormo and is characterized by the historical production of green glass, the symbol of the city.

This important manufacturing developed from ‘700 century thanks to the presence of raw materials and to the fortunate position of the town on the main communication routes and along the Arno river.

Today in Empoli only few furnaces remain, but the memory of this factory that so marked the local history, is preserved and still live in the territory.

Not far from Empoli towards Montelupo Fiorentino we can find the medieval village of Pontorme, where we can visit the birthplace of the famous painter Pontormo.

From Pontorme we reach Montelupo Fiorentino, the city of Ceramics, with its historic downtown decorated by colorful tiled installations and populated by artisan and boutiques.

The famous majolica of Montelupo, which in the Renaissance stood on the tables of the most important courts of Italy and Europe, is still the symbol of the city produced, exported and appreciated around the world.

The medieval villages of the Chianti Area

Castelfiorentino is the starting point of this itinerary dedicated to the medieval villages of the Chianti region and its famous red wine.

In Castelfiorentino history speaks through the Benozzo Gozzoli frescoes, telling a centuries-long artistic tradition.

Along the Via Samminiatese leading to Castelnuovo d’Elsa and finally to Meleto, cultivated fields and vineyards enchant our sight but also our palate, with the possibility to taste the famous Chianti wine in the numerous cellars.

The road to Montespertoli offers us breathtaking views of the hills that the wise man’s work has transformed into a wine-growing district of excellence.

In the direction of Certaldo we can reach Lucardo, authentic medieval Tuscan village which offers a view of the surrounding countryside.

We have suggested two routes in the beautiful territory close to Empoli, just few kilometers from Villa Campestri Olive Oil Resort.

But if you love medieval villages in Tuscany you can not make a stop in the green Mugello, to visit the ancient villages where once lived the Medici family. See you there!