Tuscany is a land rich in ancient villages of incredible beauty and charm. For example, a few kilometers from Florence rises Calenzano, a town rich of ancient treasures. Discover with us what are the 10 things to see in Calenzano!

Discover Calenzano

Calenzano is a Tuscan town near Prato and Florence, definitely to be discovered.

Its territory is mountainous for two thirds, it develops between the Monti della Calvana and Monte Morello.

To the west flows the Marina stream from which the area of the Val Marina takes its name.

In Calenzano there are many things to see, in fact on its territory there are villas and churches of historical and artistic interest.

The main attraction is Calenzano Alto, the medieval village and historic center of Calenzano, still enclosed by its walls.

Surely one of the main attractions of the city and of the hamlets of Calenzano are the villas. Majestic, elegant and large, all to admire.

Calenzano, here’s what to see!

Thanks to its beauty and the large amount of things to see, the town of Calenzano is definitely worth a visit. Although close to the most attractive Florence it can be included worthily in the itinerary of all tourists who, in addition to visiting the cradle of the Renaissance, want to discover the wonders kept in the nearby towns.

Here are the 10 things to see in Calenzano!

1. Calenzano Alto: Calenzano Alto is the historic center of the city and is still today enclosed by imposing and ancient walls.
In the heart of Calenzano Alto dominates the beautiful Castle of Calenzano, whose construction dates back to the end of 110 for want of the Conti Guidi of Modigliana

2. Church of San Niccolò: The Church of San Niccolò is located in the square of the same name in the Castello area, on a 200 meter high hill and dominates the entire Valle della Marina. It was the beating heart of the medieval castle and city life.

3. Pieve di San Donato: The church, dating back to the IX century, became part of the Medici properties from 1450 and was frequented by Giovanni de Medici, son of Lorenzo the Magnificent, before becoming Pope in 1513 with the name of Leone X.

4. Pieve di Santa Maria: Founded before the year 1000, the Pieve was originally oriented with the upstream façade while, in 1949, it was restored and its orientation was turned upside down. Inside it houses a “Sant’Antonio abate” from the workshop of Ridolfo del Ghirlandaio.

5. Hermitage of Sant’Anna Vecchia: The hermitage of Sant’Anna Vecchia is founded in 1217 and acquires this name when the blessed Brunetto de ’Rossi abandons it to build the new monastery of Sant’Anna in Giolica downstream.

6. Villa Peragallo: Situated in a panoramic position, in the highest area of the historic center of Calenzano, Villa Peragallo is accompanied by a series of annexes, an artificial grotto, casinos, stables and small towers, which are arranged on terraces of the vast park.

7. Villa Ginori: Villa Ginori is located in Collina near Calenzano in a panoramic position on the top of the homonymous hill on which a forest of oaks and pines stretches.

8. Rocca degli Strozzi: Rocca degli Strozzi is a beautiful Renaissance residence, historic residence of the powerful Florentine family.

9. Baroncoli Tower: The Tower of Baroncoli in Calenzano is an unfinished construction, commissioned by Carlo Ginori known as Il Vecchio (1473-1527) as a rural residence.

10. Parco del Neto: In the hamlet of Settimello in Calenzano there is the park known as Parco del Neto, a large green space where different tree species such as lime trees, plane trees and horse chestnuts are kept.

Where to Eat in Calenzano

Calenzano, located in the province of Florence, offers a variety of culinary options that will satisfy the palates of both visitors and residents. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy delicious Tuscan dishes or simply want to experience local cuisine, here are some recommendations on where to eat in Calenzano:

1. **La Fattoria Restaurant**: This restaurant is known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. You can savor traditional dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and Fiorentina steak, prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients.

2. **Trattoria Al Bocconcino**: An excellent choice for a homely and genuine meal. This trattoria offers a traditional menu with local specialties such as pappardelle with wild boar and trippa alla Fiorentina.

3. **Vecchio Firenze Pizzeria**: If you’re a pizza enthusiast, this pizzeria is the right place. It offers a wide selection of wood-fired pizzas with fresh and flavorful ingredients.

4. **Il Cedro Restaurant**: This restaurant is known for its creative and refined cuisine. You can enjoy dishes prepared with impeccable presentation in an elegant and welcoming setting.

5. **Osteria delle Panche**: A traditional osteria that offers a selection of Tuscan appetizers, first and second courses that are delicious. The menu changes frequently to offer fresh and seasonal dishes.

6. **Zero Gradi Gelateria**: After a meal, treat yourself to dessert at this gelateria. It offers a wide range of artisanal gelato flavors that will surely delight your palate.

7. **Pausa Caffè Bar Pasticceria**: For a coffee break or a delicious breakfast, this bar and pastry shop is an excellent choice. It offers quality coffee, fresh pastries, and traditional Italian pastries.

8. **Il Cavallino Bianco Restaurant**: This restaurant offers traditional Tuscan cuisine with a special focus on the quality of ingredients. It’s the ideal place for a romantic dinner or a special evening.

9. **Lo Schiaccianoci Restaurant**: If you’re looking for more international cuisine, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes including meats, seafood, and vegetarian options.

10. **La Mangiatoia Restaurant**: A rustic and welcoming environment that offers dishes from Tuscan and Italian cuisine, including fresh pasta, meats, and seafood.

Regardless of the type of cuisine you prefer, Calenzano offers a wide range of restaurants and osterie that will satisfy your culinary desires. Don’t forget to savor the local wines!

So, if you want to discover all the things there are to see in Calenzano, we are waiting for you at Villa Campestri Olive Oil Resort!