UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites

Central Italy boasts seven UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites, showcasing its rich history and stunning architecture:

• The historical centre of Florence
• Piazza del Duomo in Pisa with the Leaning Tower
• The old town of San Gimignano with its family towers
• The Medici Villas and Gardens
• The old town of Siena in Gothic style
• The historical centre of Pienza in Renaissance style
• The Val d’Orcia with its beautiful landscape

The Historical Centre of Florence

The historic old town of Florence has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982. Its magnificent buildings house a rich history of art and culture. The cathedrals, palaces, and museums, such as the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, are within walking distance. Ideal for learning about its history and culture, the city features countless priceless Renaissance treasures like works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Da Vinci.

Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa

Since 1987, the outstanding ensemble on the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The three monuments of the 11th-14th century square are the cathedral, the baptistery, and the Leaning Tower. The Campanile, with its fine white marble arches, offers the most beautiful view of the Piazza. Shortly after the foundation stone was laid in 1170, the bell tower of the cathedral began to tilt due to the loamy mire. Despite lead trains attempting to control the inclination, the tower still tilts southeast by about 4 degrees today, though it remains climbable.

The Old Town of San Gimignano

The historical centre of San Gimignano was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990 due to its well-preserved medieval architecture. Over 70 family towers were built by ruling families to symbolize their power. Though many were destroyed in the World Wars, 14 remain. The dominating towers give the town a unique character, earning it nicknames like “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” or “Manhattan of Tuscany.”

The Medici Villas and Gardens

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, the Medici Villas and Gardens include two gardens and twelve luxurious villas near Florence and Lucca.