Crete Senesi means clay of Siena. And right this very unusual composition of the local soil is responsible for the enchanting harmony of colors, which is so typical for this area. It’s a real paradise for every photographer. The medieval towns are spread over the hilltops.

The largest town in Crete Senesi, Asciano, has retained its medieval atmosphere. It is felt everywhere, even in the narrow streets, or in ancient churches. Of all these churches you should visit at least Basilica Sant’Agata, which construction began in the 11th century, then churches San Francesco and San Bernardino. The best time for your visit to Asciano, is september, when the town hold a historic celebration – Palio dei Ciuchi. Palio dei Ciuchi includes a donkey race and parade, in which the local residents perform in medieval costumes.

On the outskirts of town lies the most important monastery in the province of Siena – Monte Oliveto Maggiore.

At the south of monastery there is the favorite fortified village – Buonconvento.

Another interesting point is Monteroni d’Arbia, the town at whose center lies an impressive mill dates from 1322. The building of mill has been preserved almost complete, including the brick tower and a mill-race.

The best place for relax is Rapolano – wonderful town with spa that served already to Old Etruscans. There are several swimming pools with thermal water in different temperatures.

Crete Senesi is ideal for growing corn and vine. E.g. Brunello di Montalcino comes from this area.

View Crete Senesi – Siennese Clays with its diversified “lunar” landscape in Tuscany, Italy in a larger map

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In 1990 the historic center of San Gimignano has been included in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is a good one-day travel tip for those visiting Pisa, Firenze and Siena.

San Gimignano is significant for its numerous medieval monuments. Most dominant are the already mentioned high ancestral towers. Unfortunately, only 15 of originally 75 towers survived until now, but they are still unique decoration of the city. You can find them in the old parts of the city – San Matteo and San Giovanni. At the time of their creation (in the year 1150) served to defend the city, but were also a symbol of prestige of the ruling families.

San Gimignano is situated at an altitude of 320 meters above sea level, so it also offers a great view of the surrounding hills and the Val d’Elsa valley. For those who wish to spend holidays in a quiet place surrounded by nature, far from the bustle of cities, San Gimignano is an ideal choice. Despite its considerable popularity and attractiveness, San Gimignano managed to retain its medieval character and unique atmosphere. Most tourists come here just for one day, and especially in the main tourist season, however off season the city is really quiet.

The city was built on the Via Francigena trail that led from Rome to the north, used mainly by traders and pilgrims. Later the settlement was renamed to Silvia. In the 11th century it was still just a small village with four houses, but in next hundred years grown to a smaller city. In 1348 the town was so weakened by constant fighting between the aristocrats and also by the plague, that they were forced to ask for a help of Florence.

By the time San Gimignano began to be attractive for Italian noble families who built magnificent palaces here. The city then experienced the largest glory, which was stopped in the 15th century. Since the beginning of the 20th century tourists from all over Europe began to explore San Gimignano and over time it became a popular tourist destination.

The most important sights include (in the addition to the stone towers) such as the city gate Porta San Giovanni of 13th century. Next to gate, among other medieval buildings, you can see the church of San Francesco. At the end of Via San Giovanni there is a medieval arch that connects two main squares, Piazza della Cisterna, lined with towers, medieval buildings and a range of tempting cafes, and Piazza del Duomo with two other landmarks: Collegiata and Museo Civic.

Another important monument is the Romanesque-Gothic church of Sant’Agostino from the 13th century or the ruins of Rocca castle with its public gardens. You can also visit a modest museum of religious art and archaeological finds – Museo d’Arte Sacra.

San Gimignano is worth visiting not only for its monuments, but also because of the amazing art gallery and great views of the Tuscan countryside.

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Isola dei Pescatori, Borromean Islands, Italy by Ed Webster

The first island acquired was that of Isola Bella which was nothing more than a rock that was named after the countess Isabella Borromeo. Over the years, a number of improvements to the island have been made including the construction of a palace during the 17th century. Vast amounts of sand were filed in around the island to increase its size over the centuries.

The second and largest of the Borromean Islands is that of the Isola Madre. The island is well-known for its many beautiful gardens. There is also a palace on the island which is adorned with many fine masterpieces from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

The Isola dei Pescatori (known also as Isola Superiore) used to be owned by the Borromo family. Today it is known as the only inhabited Borromean Island. With a small fishing village, the island has a population of a little more than 200 residents. The residents of this island are also the one responsible for bringing tourists to the Borromean Islands during the peak seasons of the year.

Both the Isolino di San Giovanni and the rock known as Malghera are uninhabited and no major structures have been built upon them. The rock of Malghera is only 200 square meters in size and is known for its small beach; it is located between the islands of Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella.

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