Certaldo
|
Latest page update: 6 March 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The town of Certaldo is situated within the Metropolitan City of Florence province and stands at an elevation of 67 metres above sea level. It has a population of around 16,000 inhabitants.
Places of interest nearby include San Gimignano, San Vivaldo, Val d'Elsa and Greve in Chianti while the recommended accommodation is the Hotel Certaldo. |
|
Italian Renaissance writer and poet Giovanni Boccaccio (1313-1375) was born and died in Certaldo; his most famous work was the Decameron: a series of short stories.
Related links
Certaldo • Tuscany • Medieval Hill Town
Certaldo is a medieval town located in the heart of Tuscany, about 30 kilometres south of Florence. It sits on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with olive groves, vineyards, and cypress-lined roads stretching out in every direction. The town is known for its well-preserved historic centre, which is divided into two distinct parts: the lower town, Certaldo Basso, and the upper town, Certaldo Alto. The latter is home to narrow cobbled streets, charming piazzas, and beautiful old buildings, including the Palazzo Pretorio and the Church of San Tommaso e Prospero.
Certaldo is often visited for its rich history, which is tied to notable figures such as the poet Giovanni Boccaccio, who was born here. The town hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including the popular Certaldo Medievale festival, which celebrates its medieval past with music, traditional foods, and re-enactments. Visitors can also explore local shops and restaurants offering traditional Tuscan cuisine and local wines, making it a great place to immerse oneself in the region's authentic culture.
Nearby, the town of San Gimignano, with its famous towers, is just a short drive away and provides another slice of medieval charm. The picturesque village of Barberino Val d'Elsa is also nearby, offering peaceful surroundings and access to the vineyards of the Chianti region. For those seeking a taste of nature, the area around Certaldo is ideal for hiking and cycling, with trails leading through the beautiful Tuscan hills and valleys. Additionally, the historic city of Florence is easily accessible, making Certaldo a great base for exploring both the countryside and the city’s renowned landmarks.
Certaldo is often visited for its rich history, which is tied to notable figures such as the poet Giovanni Boccaccio, who was born here. The town hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including the popular Certaldo Medievale festival, which celebrates its medieval past with music, traditional foods, and re-enactments. Visitors can also explore local shops and restaurants offering traditional Tuscan cuisine and local wines, making it a great place to immerse oneself in the region's authentic culture.
Nearby, the town of San Gimignano, with its famous towers, is just a short drive away and provides another slice of medieval charm. The picturesque village of Barberino Val d'Elsa is also nearby, offering peaceful surroundings and access to the vineyards of the Chianti region. For those seeking a taste of nature, the area around Certaldo is ideal for hiking and cycling, with trails leading through the beautiful Tuscan hills and valleys. Additionally, the historic city of Florence is easily accessible, making Certaldo a great base for exploring both the countryside and the city’s renowned landmarks.
History
Certaldo has ancient origins dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, but it gained prominence during the Middle Ages. The town was strategically located along the Via Francigena, an important medieval pilgrimage route connecting Rome to the north.
During the 14th century, the town flourished under the rule of the powerful Florentine family, the Alberti, and it was during this time that the famous poet Giovanni Boccaccio was born in Certaldo. Boccaccio's works, including the Decameron, had a profound impact on Italian literature. Throughout history, Certaldo was an important trading center and agricultural town, known for its production of cereals and grapes. Today, Certaldo's well-preserved historical center and its connection to Boccaccio attract visitors from around the world.
During the 14th century, the town flourished under the rule of the powerful Florentine family, the Alberti, and it was during this time that the famous poet Giovanni Boccaccio was born in Certaldo. Boccaccio's works, including the Decameron, had a profound impact on Italian literature. Throughout history, Certaldo was an important trading center and agricultural town, known for its production of cereals and grapes. Today, Certaldo's well-preserved historical center and its connection to Boccaccio attract visitors from around the world.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Historic Centre: Explore the medieval centre of Certaldo, with its cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and medieval towers. Don't miss the Palazzo Pretorio and the Church of Saints Jacopo and Filippo, which are among the town's notable landmarks.
- Boccaccio's House: Visit Casa di Boccaccio, the house where the famous poet Giovanni Boccaccio was born. The house has been transformed into a museum dedicated to his life and works.
- Certaldo Alto: Take a funicular ride to Certaldo Alto, the upper part of the town, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
- Wine and Food: Savour traditional Tuscan cuisine in Certaldo's restaurants and trattorias, and taste the local wines, including the Chianti wines.
- Mercantia Festival: If visiting in July, don't miss the Mercantia Festival, a lively and colorful street festival featuring performances, art, and music.
- Tuscan Countryside: Enjoy leisurely walks in the surrounding countryside, with scenic views of vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills.
- Palio dei Rioni: Experience the Palio dei Rioni, a historic horse race and festival held annually in Certaldo.
Comune di Certaldo
|
Province: Metropolitan City of Florence
Region: Tuscany Population: 15,635 (in 2024 - source) Size: 75 km² Elevation: 67 metres Famous native: Giovanni Bocaccio , writer/poet (1313 - 1375) Fly to: Florence Airport - 49 minutes by car (45 km) Close by: San Gimignano, San Vivaldo, Val d'Elsa, Greve in Chianti Recommended accommodation: Hotel Certaldo |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Listed since: 2003
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
Listed since: 2003
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
