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Holiday in Certaldo
Certaldo is a charming medieval town in the Tuscany region of Italy, located in the province of Florence. The town is best known as the birthplace of Giovanni Boccaccio, the famous 14th-century writer and poet, author of The Decameron.
Certaldo has ancient origins, dating back to the Etruscans and Romans, but it flourished in the Middle Ages. It became an important center under the rule of the powerful Counts Alberti before being absorbed into the Republic of Florence in the 12th century. The town's well-preserved medieval architecture reflects its historical significance as a strategic stronghold along the Via Francigena, a major pilgrimage and trade route.
Description of Certaldo
Certaldo is divided into two parts:
Certaldo Alto: The old town, situated on a hill, is a beautifully preserved medieval village with red-brick buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. The town is surrounded by walls and accessible via a funicular railway from the lower part.
Certaldo Basso: The modern section of the town, where most residents live and where you’ll find train and bus connections.
Certaldo Alto is particularly picturesque, with its medieval towers, palazzi, and churches that transport visitors back in time. The atmosphere is peaceful and authentic, making it a hidden gem in Tuscany.
Typical Food of Certaldo
Certaldo is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and rustic flavors. Some of the town's specialties include:
Cipolla di Certaldo: A famous red onion variety grown in the area, often used in soups, stews, and jams.
Zuppa di Cipolle di Certaldo: A rich onion soup, sometimes baked with cheese and bread.
Pici al Sugo di Cinghiale: Handmade thick spaghetti served with wild boar sauce.
Ribollita: A classic Tuscan vegetable and bread soup, traditionally made with leftover ingredients.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A thick-cut, Tuscan-style T-bone steak, cooked over an open flame.
Cantucci con Vin Santo: Traditional almond biscuits served with sweet Vin Santo wine.
Things to Do in Certaldo
Despite being a small town, Certaldo offers a variety of activities for visitors:
Explore Certaldo Alto – Wander through the medieval streets, admire the well-preserved buildings, and soak in the historic atmosphere.
Visit Palazzo Pretorio – The historic town hall, with its fascinating frescoes, coats of arms, and medieval prison cells.
Casa di Boccaccio – Visit the home of Giovanni Boccaccio, which has been restored and features a museum dedicated to the writer.
Church of Santi Jacopo e Filippo – A medieval church where Boccaccio is buried.
Funicular Ride – Take the funicular railway between Certaldo Basso and Certaldo Alto for stunning views.
Attend Mercantia Festival – A famous street theater and arts festival held in July, featuring performances, music, and artisan markets.
Wine Tasting and Local Food Tours – Enjoy Tuscan wines and traditional dishes in local wineries and trattorias.
Day Trips to Nearby Towns – Visit nearby San Gimignano, Volterra, or Florence for more Tuscan experiences.
Cooking Classes – Learn to make traditional Tuscan dishes using local ingredients.
Hiking and Cycling – Explore the rolling hills and vineyards surrounding the town.
Certaldo has ancient origins, dating back to the Etruscans and Romans, but it flourished in the Middle Ages. It became an important center under the rule of the powerful Counts Alberti before being absorbed into the Republic of Florence in the 12th century. The town's well-preserved medieval architecture reflects its historical significance as a strategic stronghold along the Via Francigena, a major pilgrimage and trade route.
Description of Certaldo
Certaldo is divided into two parts:
Certaldo Alto: The old town, situated on a hill, is a beautifully preserved medieval village with red-brick buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. The town is surrounded by walls and accessible via a funicular railway from the lower part.
Certaldo Basso: The modern section of the town, where most residents live and where you’ll find train and bus connections.
Certaldo Alto is particularly picturesque, with its medieval towers, palazzi, and churches that transport visitors back in time. The atmosphere is peaceful and authentic, making it a hidden gem in Tuscany.
Typical Food of Certaldo
Certaldo is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and rustic flavors. Some of the town's specialties include:
Cipolla di Certaldo: A famous red onion variety grown in the area, often used in soups, stews, and jams.
Zuppa di Cipolle di Certaldo: A rich onion soup, sometimes baked with cheese and bread.
Pici al Sugo di Cinghiale: Handmade thick spaghetti served with wild boar sauce.
Ribollita: A classic Tuscan vegetable and bread soup, traditionally made with leftover ingredients.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A thick-cut, Tuscan-style T-bone steak, cooked over an open flame.
Cantucci con Vin Santo: Traditional almond biscuits served with sweet Vin Santo wine.
Things to Do in Certaldo
Despite being a small town, Certaldo offers a variety of activities for visitors:
Explore Certaldo Alto – Wander through the medieval streets, admire the well-preserved buildings, and soak in the historic atmosphere.
Visit Palazzo Pretorio – The historic town hall, with its fascinating frescoes, coats of arms, and medieval prison cells.
Casa di Boccaccio – Visit the home of Giovanni Boccaccio, which has been restored and features a museum dedicated to the writer.
Church of Santi Jacopo e Filippo – A medieval church where Boccaccio is buried.
Funicular Ride – Take the funicular railway between Certaldo Basso and Certaldo Alto for stunning views.
Attend Mercantia Festival – A famous street theater and arts festival held in July, featuring performances, music, and artisan markets.
Wine Tasting and Local Food Tours – Enjoy Tuscan wines and traditional dishes in local wineries and trattorias.
Day Trips to Nearby Towns – Visit nearby San Gimignano, Volterra, or Florence for more Tuscan experiences.
Cooking Classes – Learn to make traditional Tuscan dishes using local ingredients.
Hiking and Cycling – Explore the rolling hills and vineyards surrounding the town.
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