San Donato: History, Art and Landscape

San Donato in Poggio combines a clearly recognizable medieval townscape with a history of art and culture. The town developed around a castle of medieval origin; ancient gates, bell towers, streets and squares overlooking the landscape shape its appearance. For those interested in culture, the townscape brings together the history of castles, churches, frescoes, the baptismal font and Palazzo Malaspina as distinct points of interest.

Holiday apartment in San Donato: discover culture and history

The history is particularly concentrated in the Pieve di San Donato in Poggio. It was already mentioned in 989 in a document from the Badia a Passignano monastery. In 1265, following the Battle of Montaperti, a peace treaty was concluded here between the rival republics of Florence and Siena. It is also home to a terracotta baptismal font from 1513 attributed to Giovanni Della Robbia. The history of the Pieve in San Donato in Poggio spans the period from 989, through the peace treaty of 1265, to the baptismal font from 1513 attributed to Giovanni Della Robbia. Thus, an early written reference, a significant historical event and a specific work of art come together.

Another focal point is the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Neve. The church dates from the 14th century and was originally dedicated to Thomas Aquinas. It preserves remnants of two frescoes, including a fresco dated 1413 depicting the Madonna and Child enthroned with Saints Simeon and Thaddeus. The historic townscape is complemented by the Torre Campanaria, one of the most significant surviving examples of San Donato in Poggio’s 13th-century fortifications.

Palazzo Malaspina continues this cultural tradition. The late-Renaissance building, whose existence has been documented since 989, became a venue for temporary exhibitions, conferences, exhibitions and other cultural events following restoration completed in 2011. The Palazzo also houses the municipal office for tourist information and assistance (IAT). Historical architecture, cultural events and tourist information thus come together in one place.

Landscape and destinations in the surrounding region

Beyond San Donato, further historical and landscape-related points of interest await. The area around San Donato includes the historic site of Pieve di Sant'Appiano, Monte Calvarino, Castello di Fulignano as a castle, and Monte Querciabella. In the wider surrounding region, there are also the Castle of Monteriggioni as a castle, the Museo Archeologico/Spezieria di Santa Fina as a museum, and the mountains Monte Maggio and Monte Luco.

Around San Donato in Poggio, mountains, castles, a museum and a historic site are spread across the surrounding area and the wider region.

Further orientation

For further orientation within this selection of destinations, you can also include Badia A Passignano.

For the main travel overview: Tavarnelle Val Di Pesa.