Piazza della Cisterna

Oh, la vita bella! Welcome to Piazza della Cisterna, the picturesque heart of San Gimignano, Italy. This delightful square will make you feel like you've stepped into a postcard, with its medieval charm, cobbled streets, and a spectacular well known as La Cisterna.

Let's take a leisurely stroll through this enchanting piazza and discover both the well-known attractions and the hidden gems that will make your visit truly unforgettable.

As you enter Piazza della Cisterna, the first thing that will catch your eye is the towering Torre Grossa. Standing tall at 54 meters, it's the tallest and mightiest tower in San Gimignano. You can climb to the top, but be prepared for a leg workout! The panoramic view from up there will leave you breathless... and maybe a little dizzy!

Now, turn your attention to the centerpiece of the square, the marvelous La Cisterna. This ancient well has been quenching the thirst of San Gimignano residents for centuries. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the well and make a wish, your dreams just might come true. Who knows, maybe you'll be lucky enough to find a genie down there!

Feeling peckish? Look no further than Gelateria Dondoli, a world-renowned gelato parlor that's been churning out sweet delights since 1976. With flavors like saffron, Vernaccia wine, and even gorgonzola, this place is a gelato lover's dream come true. Word on the street is that they have a secret flavor hidden behind a secret door, just like in those spy movies. If you manage to find it, you'll be known as the "Gelato Whisperer" forever!

Now, let's dive into some hidden gems of Piazza della Cisterna. While most visitors are captivated by the grandeur of the main attractions, there are a few spots that whisper secrets in hushed tones.

Take a detour down Via del Castello, a narrow alleyway that seems to lead nowhere. But surprise, surprise! As you meander through the shadows, you'll stumble upon the Church of Sant'Agostino. Behind its unassuming facade lies a masterpiece by Benozzo Gozzoli, an artist with a delicious name and an even more delicious talent for painting frescoes. The colorful scenes depicting the life of Saint Augustine will transport you to a different era, where life was simple and frescoes were all the rage.

Feeling enchanted yet? Prepare to be dazzled by the Museum of Torture, located inconspicuously on Via San Giovanni. A visit here will make you squirm in your seat as you discover the dark and twisted ways humans used to punish each other. From the infamous Iron Maiden to the bone-chillingly creative devices, this museum is not for the faint of heart. Just remember, it's all in the name of history!

As we bid farewell to Piazza della Cisterna, remember to savor every moment of your time here. Whether you're admiring the grandeur of Torre Grossa, making a wish at La Cisterna, indulging in gelato adventures, or unearthing hidden treasures, this delightful square will leave an everlasting imprint on your soul. So, grab your camera, a good pair of walking shoes, and an appetite for adventure, because Piazza della Cisterna is waiting to charm you with its magic!

Buon viaggio!