What does Certaldo, a medieval treasure in northern Italy, look like?

Certaldo he city And a district municipality Tuscany, Italylocated in Greater city of Florence, in the middle of the beautiful Valdelsa Valley. Certaldo is located about 35 kilometers southwest of Florence Cathedral Medieval treasure That continued over the centuries. This city, with a population of 16,297, is famous as the home of the brilliant writer and poet. Giovanni Boccacciowhich inspired his works Miguel de Cervantes. The Florentine dialect used by Boccaccio was so influential that it became the basis of the official national language of Italy.

Certaldo is just 50 minutes by train and 35 minutes by car from Florence and 40 minutes by train north of Siena. The city is divided into two parts: Certaldo Bassothe lower part, and Certaldo Alto, the upper part is in the Middle Ages. Only Certaldo Alto is accessible Residents By car, but visitors can reach this area via the Certaldo funicular, a ride that adds a scenic experience to the tour.

This historic town, one of the most inspiring in Tuscany, has maintained a magical atmosphere that has earned it recognition from… The tourist club’s orange flag, which distinguishes cities that have historical heritage and cultural value. Settlements in the area date back to the Etruscan era, although their significant development began earlier middle ages. The name Certaldo is derived from the Latin word “cerrus altus” or the Germanic word “cerrus aldo”, both of which refer to… Covered hill Of the oak trees where the city is located.

Certaldo is not only famous for its historical heritage, but also for its contribution to it Italian literature Through his most famous son, Giovanni Boccaccio. Boccaccio, one of the fathers of Italian literature and author of the Decameron, was born and died in Certaldo, and his home became a museum Which visitors can explore to learn more about his life and work.

The landscape of Certaldo is one of Tuscany’s most dominant landscapes Cultivated fields And forests, along with vineyards and olive trees, contribute to creating a beautiful environment formed through human intervention. From Certaldo, you can easily reach Historical center of San Gimignano An exceptional medieval city in which art, architecture and history combine to create an elegant and majestic atmosphere. The Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route, passes through the Valdelsa area, although it does not pass directly through Certaldo, making it easy to visit other nearby points of interest.

As for the traditional foods of this city,… Onion The city of Certaldo, mentioned in Boccaccio’s “Decameron”, is a symbol of the city and has a special meaning for its inhabitants, who are called “Cipollone”. This onion vinousIt is an essential ingredient in local cuisine and is used in… Traditional dishes Like boiled meat with onions. On the other hand, at the Antica Fonte restaurant, the filetto di maiale arrosto al lardo di Colonnata with cipolle di Certaldo is highly recommended, a culinary experience that reflects the richness of local flavours.

Certaldo becomes even more charming in July mercantia festival, An event dedicated to street art that fills the city with amazing performances and groups. In September, a historical evocation inspired by novels ““Decameron”Which attracts visitors and locals alike.

In the heart of Certaldo Alto, it is located Pretorio PalaceIt is a must-see place for its unique armor-filled facade and impressive interior design. Built between the 12th and 15th centuries, the palace features a red brick facade, a tower with a clock from 1484 and battlements restored in the 19th century. In the same area there are frescoes Church of San Tommaso and Prosperoattributed to Benozzo Gozzoli, is another highlight not to be missed.

Located on Via Boccaccio, the Boccaccio House Museum offers an intimate look into the poet’s life and is an ideal complementary visit to Pretorio Palace. Walking along the streets of Certaldo Alto, visitors will find artisanal shops, bars and restaurants, as well as piazzas from which to enjoy photogenic Tuscan panoramas.

Certaldo is a city that offers a rich mix of date, cultureAnd Landscape beautyIn addition to the literary heritage that is still alive in its streets and monuments. It is an irresistible destination in the heart of Tuscany, where the medieval atmosphere and Boccaccio’s heritage still captivate those who visit.