Do you love medieval villages and dream of living in a place where peace and beauty reign, far from the chaos of city life? Italy, with its extraordinary historical and cultural richness, offers numerous well-preserved and charming villages, especially in Tuscany. If you’re exploring villages to relocate to in Tuscany, this region presents an unmatched blend of history, natural beauty, and lifestyle. Whether you’re considering buying or renting a house in one of these gems in central Italy, here’s an overview you can’t miss.
Medieval villages are true treasures, and owning a home in one of them is a dream for those who appreciate timeless beauty, tranquility, and elegance.
San Gimignano
Located about 57 kilometers southwest of Florence, San Gimignano is a unique medieval jewel. This enchanting village, with fewer than 8,000 residents, offers a relaxed lifestyle in what feels like an open-air museum. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Gimignano is renowned for its extraordinary medieval architecture, a rare and well-preserved example even compared to other areas of Italy and Europe.
Nestled in the heart of the Val d’Elsa, the village is surrounded by breathtaking hills and valleys, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a home immersed in history and nature. One of San Gimignano’s most iconic features is its 14 medieval towers, symbols of the power and prosperity of the era, which draw visitors from all over the world.
Among its main attractions is the San Gimignano Cathedral (Duomo), whose construction began in the 10th century. This architectural masterpiece fits perfectly into the medieval atmosphere of the village, offering a unique experience to anyone who visits.
San Gimignano is more than just a place to visit: it’s a true window into the past, perfect for those who wish to live surrounded by history, art, and unparalleled landscapes.
Volterra
One of the quintessential medieval cities of Tuscany, and beyond. Volterra boasts two concentric walls that protect its historic center, home to medieval buildings, as well as remnants of Etruscan structures and even traces of the Roman era. In the 10th century, the city was an important seat for wealthy Tuscan lords, and today we can marvel at the heritage they left behind.
Here, you can admire thousand-year-old towers that welcome you to the historic center and delineate the old city from the new. The 12th-century cathedral stands as a proud landmark, surrounded by a wealth of churches designed by renowned architects of the time. These structures are now rich testimonies to the elegance and grandeur of a city that played such a pivotal role in history.
Cortona
In the province of Arezzo, at 500 meters above sea level, Cortona is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a slightly larger village than the previous ones. With around 21,000 inhabitants, it remains a human-scale destination where you can escape the chaos of the city, immerse yourself in the lush countryside, or enjoy the historical charm of the ancient part of this town.
Anghiari
With fewer than 6,000 residents and a highly strategic location, Anghiari offers stunning views of the expansive green valleys of Umbria. Situated on the border with Italy’s greenest region, it’s an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to natural spaces, rolling hills, and wide-open landscapes.
While Anghiari may not stand out for its historical significance or a bustling, vibrant social scene, these factors work in your favor if you’re looking for property in the area. The lack of tourist-driven demand helps keep real estate prices more competitive, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quieter, more affordable lifestyle.
