The little town of San Gimignano has remained largely unchanged since the Middle Ages. Perhaps the only notable difference between then and now is that in medieval times the town made its living from traveling tradesmen and the many visiting pilgrims, whereas today tourism is the main industry. Legend has it that the name San Gimignano comes from a bishop from Modena (who was later canonized), who in 450 saved the little town from the marauding armies of Attila the Hun. A castle was built here during the 10th century, around which the town grew.
In the 12th century San Gimignano became a municipality. In the mid 13th century most of the town’s wooden buildings were replaced with stone buildings, and a new wall was built around the town. It was also at this time that many of the towers, which can still be seen today, were constructed. However, the 15 towers that still stand today are a far cry from the 72 that once dominated San Gimignano.
In the middle of the 14th century San Gimignano was an important trading and agricultural town, as well as a popular stop for the constant stream of pilgrims on their way to
Rome. Then, the town had a population of 15,000 (twice that of today!) and two factions embroiled in a long and bitter power struggle: one faction supporting the Salvucci family (Ghibellines), and another supporting the Ardinghelli family (Guelphs). At its height, San Gimignano had all of four hospitals, five convents and one brothel.
If you’re planning to visit this town during its high season (between March and October and Holy Days all year round) then it’s a good idea to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In the hours between 10:00 and 18:00 the town has so many visitors that it might spoil your experience. The town is at its best in the evenings, when there are fewer people and when the locals reclaim the streets.
If you happen to visit in the middle of the day in summertime, then the best way to dull the pain of the hordes is to buy an ice cream from the wonderful ice cream stand "Gelateria di Piazza" at No. 4 Piazza della Cisterna. Their products are world famous - and rightly so! Despite their renown, prices are still reasonable: for two euros you can get a delicious medium-sized cornet, and for just four euro you can forget all about lunch...
