Certaldo is a wonderful village of the Valdelsa region, not far from Siena and Volterra, right on the top of a hill and protected by solid walls. About 16,000 people inhabit this unique center which became famous worldwide as it was the motherland of a well-known Italian writer, Giovanni Boccaccio.
Its Etruscan and Roman origins were discovered in occasion of the finding of ancient archaeological artifacts such as potteries, urns and graves. The Medieval period was anyway the most flourishing for this city, as it saw the construction of many buildings like the Palazzo del Vicario (10th/11th century), the St. Tommaso and Prospero Church (11th/13th century) or the surrounding walls with their access doors. It also became an important step of the “Via Francigena” itinerary, which was the road connecting Northern Europe to Rome that was transited by thousands of pilgrims.
The flag of Certaldo is very strange: it’s white, red and it portrays an onion on the left. One of its symbols and typical products is in fact the “cipolla di Certaldo”, a quite big red onion with a sweet flavor that is even mentioned in Boccaccio’s “Frate Cipolla” novel. Tasting this regional specialty is something you must do in Certaldo, but don’t forget to try the “mercacci” as well, which are special biscuits made with chocolate, almonds and dried fruits invented in honor of the local poet.
The most picturesque spot of this city id undoubtedly Certaldo Alto: the historical city center dominates the valley from the top of the hill and it’s possible to reach it using a funicular railway or an uphill pathway. It has kept its medieval aspect so it really seems that time has stopped since Middle Ages: just like Giovanni Boccaccio seven centuries ago, you’ll walk along the narrow alleys next to the stone “house-towers” and surrounded by earthenware tiles.
The house of Boccaccio is today a museum you will be able to visit during your stay in Certaldo and it’s something you cannot miss. It’s located in the main street, via Boccaccio, and it’s a small building with century-old interior furniture containing the handwritten masterpieces by the poet and their first translations.
Don’t forget to visit Palazzo Pretorio, a symbolic monument of the city which hosted Counts Alberti family in the 13th century. Admire its peculiar, beautiful façade and walk through its corridors, its prisons, its archive, its hearing room, its chapel and its wonderful private rooms.
Another important place is the Museo dell’Arte Sacra: it was inaugurated in 2001 and it presents many beautiful medieval works which were found in the churches near Certaldo.
Although this center is an authentic urbanistic jewel that is beautiful in every moment of the year, it is particularly suggestive in July, when “Mercantia” festival is organized. This international street art festival lasts five days and it sees the participation of dancers, musicians, acrobats, fire-eaters and other street artists who crowd the streets recreating a magic and unique atmosphere.
What are you waiting for? Book one of our villas in Certaldo and visit this wonderful borgo! We suggest you Villa Orchidea, or Certaldo Apartments!
