Ancient churches in an enchanted countryside
The ancient Via Francigena runs through the San Gimignano area, giving pilgrims an experience that involves history, natural landscapes e spirituality. Modern walkers, following in the footsteps of their medieval predecessors, can traverse the vineyards and olive groves that surround the city, enjoying the same panoramic views that enchanted the pilgrims of that time. They also intercept the fascinating religious buildings found along the route that furrows the surroundings of the town of San Gimignano.
A prodigious place: Shrine of Divine Providence in Pancole
A place of peace and an excellent opportunity to take a break midway along stage 31 Gambassi-San Gimignano of the Francigena, the Sanctuary of Mary Most Holy Mother of Divine Providence of Pancole is also a prodigious place where a legend linked to a shepherdess says, presumably in the late 1400s, the image of the Virgin suckling the Child painted by Pier Francesco Fiorentino. Almost completely destroyed by German troops during World War II, the shrine was rebuilt and reconsecrated in 1949.
Faith and silence among the cypresses: Pieve dell'Assunta di Cèllole
Rooted in the 11th century, essential and solemn architecture, a surrounding nature that envelops it in sacredness and silence, the Pieve dell'Assunta di Cèllole is a religious gem that stands out on the path unexpectedly. The façade dating back to 1200 makes space for itself among the rows of cypress trees and conceals a three-aisle layout punctuated by columns and round arches and traces of ancient frescoes. It marks the end of the dirt route of Stage 31 and the imminent arrival at the City of Towers along a scenic but paved road.
The monastery on the outskirts of the city: Convent of Monte Oliveto
Leaving San Gimignano behind and approaching Stage 32, which ends in Monteriggioni, the Convent of Monte Oliveto shows itself in all its austere grandeur emerging among the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. Also known as the Convent of Monte Oliveto Minore in Barbiano, it was founded in the 14th century and offers an environment of peace and serenity, where it is possible to admire works of religious art kept within the centuries-old walls, such as Benozzo Gozzoli's fresco depicting the Crucifixion, housed in the 15th-century cloister.
The evocative places of worship of the Via Francigena also enrich the itinerary in the historic center of San Gimignano; once through the village gate, one encounters the Church of San Francesco, a treasure trove of art that stands in a reserved and discreet little square off the tourist flow routes, and the Collegiate Church, the cathedral and spiritual heart of San Gimignano.
