Colle from 1200 to 2000

Have you already visited the most famous destinations? I propose you a unique, fun and unforgettable experience: a walk in Colle Val D’Elsa, a medieval village off the tourist routes, but full of charm and history…

It is the birthplace of Arnolfo di Cambio, the architect who built the well-known Palazzo Vecchio and the enormous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence. It is the town in which Carlo Collodi entered the seminary and here took inspiration for the famous novel of Pinocchio. It is also the most important town of Italy in crystal and paper production.

I will wait for you for a walk to discover the Santa Caterina and the Castle districts, with their towers, noble palaces and narrow medieval alleys; where we will talk about traditions, battles and illustrious people. Afterward, we will slowly descend from the Baluardo panoramic point towards the Piana, the lower part of the town. This is known for the ancient paper mills; its water system, called “le gore”, and for its weekly market which takes place here every Friday morning, where we will have the opportunity to taste the best local flavors.

At the end, I would recommend enjoying a delicious picnic on the banks of the Elsa river, known since the times of Dante Alighieri for its turquoise and limestone waters. Alternatively, we could visit the new St. Peter’s Musuem Complex, with its beautiful masterpieces from XIII century to today.