Tower of Becci
Towering over Cisterna Square in the historic center is the Becci Tower, adjacent to the arch of the same name. The tower, built in the 13th century, has a square base with irregularly shaped drafts. It may seem more basic and less lavish than the others that stand in the city; however, the Becci family, which owned the building, was one of the most important families in the city. Its members were well-known merchants who held relevant public offices during the most prosperous years of San Gimignano's history. To the left of the tower, the ancient Arco dei Becci, dating from the 10th-11th centuries, is also named after the family. Its importance is due to the purpose it served in the past; the arch was one of the two gates, the southern one, of the ancient city walls, one of the two entrances to the heart of the city. Arch and tower contribute to the unique setting of one of San Gimignano's most important squares.