In the heart of the evocative Valdelsa, among the gentle Tuscan hills, stands Certaldo Alto with pride, a rare and precious example of a perfectly preserved medieval village. This historic gem is in a strategic position on the border between the provinces of Florence and Siena, making it an ideal base for exploring some of the most famous Tuscan art cities, such as Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, and Volterra.
The origins of Certaldo Alto date back to Etruscan times, but it was in the Middle Ages that the village took on the appearance that still characterizes it today. Until 1164, it was a fief under the rule of Count Alberti of Prato. Its history changed radically with the arrival of Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, who expropriated the castle and turned it into a major vicariate. For centuries, Certaldo saw as many as 705 vicars succeed one another, and their passage is still visible today through the numerous coats of arms that adorn the facade of the majestic Palazzo Pretorio, a symbol of power and authority of the time.
But Certaldo is also the homeland of one of the greatest authors of Italian literature, Giovanni Boccaccio (1313-1375), the famous author of the Decameron. His house, now transformed into a museum, stands in the heart of the medieval village and allows visitors to retrace the life and works of the writer, who spent his last years here after leaving Florence during the plague. In the nearby Church of Santi Jacopo e Filippo, a place of deep spirituality and art, the remains of the great poet are preserved, making the village a must-see for literature lovers.
The charm of Certaldo Alto does not end with its palaces and literary history. The cobbled streets of the village, such as Via Boccaccio, offer a journey through time, with their stone houses, ancient workshops, and majestic towers. The village is still partly surrounded by its imposing medieval walls, which frame the beauty of the place and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The ancient access roads, Costa Alberti and Costa Vecchia, and the three historic entrance gates – Porta del Rivellino, Porta al Sole, and Porta Alberti – bear witness to the strategic and commercial importance the village had in past centuries.
Between the 17th and 18th centuries, with the increase in commercial traffic along the historic Via Francigena, Certaldo saw the development of the lower part of the town. However, the beating heart remained Certaldo Alto, where the Palazzo dei Vicari continued to be the seat of local government until 1866, when the municipal administration moved to the current Town Hall.
Today, Certaldo offers an extraordinary combination of historical, artistic, and cultural treasures, including events such as Mercantia, the famous street arts festival that attracts thousands of people every year. Certaldo Alto is an unmissable destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the history, art, and culture of Tuscany, while enjoying enchanting natural scenery and the authentic atmosphere that only medieval villages like this can offer.
Events
The events held in Certaldo celebrate its history and traditions. One of the main events is Mercantia, which takes place in July. This street theater festival enlivens the village with performances, street artists, and artisans from all over Italy, transforming Certaldo into a sort of open-air stage.
In June, A Cena da Messer Boccaccio is held, an event that takes participants back in time, offering a medieval dinner in honor of the writer Giovanni Boccaccio, one of the most illustrious figures linked to the area. In September, on the other hand, Calambur takes place, the challenge between the districts of Certaldo. This event involves citizens in games and competitions, celebrating the sense of community and local identity. Also in the same month, or in October, Boccaccesca is held, a food and wine event dedicated to the flavors and aromas of Tuscan cuisine, with tastings, exhibitions, and shows related to the culinary arts.
Finally, the Boccaccio Literary Prize, also held in September, celebrates the figure of the famous author, awarding prizes to literary works of great value.
Typical Products
Certaldo: where agricultural tradition intertwines with an extraordinary natural environment, characterized by a climate ideal for growing high-quality products. Among these stands out extra virgin olive oil, which benefits from the properties of the soil and favorable climatic conditions, appreciated for its fruity notes and lightness.
The wine Chianti D.O.C.G., which here reaches the highest levels of quality, is full-bodied and well-structured, with an aromatic bouquet that reflects the richness of the land from which it comes. During autumn, the area of Certaldo is enriched by the harvest of the prized white truffle, a rare and highly sought-after product.
However, the true queen of Certaldo’s crops is undoubtedly the onion, present in the municipal coat of arms since medieval times. The Certaldo onion, known for its strong yet sweet flavor, is a fundamental ingredient of the local culinary tradition. This vegetable lends itself to numerous preparations, from traditional soups to jams, and its versatility in the kitchen has made it a symbol of the area’s gastronomy.
Places of Interest
As for places to visit, Certaldo offers an artistic and cultural heritage of great interest. The Palazzo Pretorio, located in the heart of the old village, is one of the city’s most emblematic buildings, with its heraldic coats of arms adorning the facade.
Inside, you can admire frescoes and works of art that tell the story of the city. Another point of interest is the Tabernacle of Benozzo Gozzoli, with its frescoes depicting religious scenes of great artistic value. The *Casa del Boccaccio*, now transformed into a museum, allows you to immerse yourself in the life and works of the great writer.
Not far away is Palazzo Giannozzi, which houses the Museum of the Nail, an unusual and curious collection of ancient nails, a testament to the area’s artisanal traditions. Finally, the Museum of Sacred Art houses a series of religious works, including paintings, sculptures, and sacred furnishings from local churches.
For more information on opening hours and entrance fees to the various sites, you can visit the official website of the Municipality of Certaldo.
