Hey travel geeks! This week we’re lingering in Florence (Firenze), my favorite Italian city. Join the journey — sharing, commenting, and responding is always appreciated and makes these posts even better!
The skyline view of Florence is breathtaking, and one of the top spots to capture it is the terrace at the Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte (Abbey of San Miniato on the Mountain). You can get there by rideshare, public bus (lines 12 or 13), guided tours, or taxi — but we chose to walk up, and it was the highlight.
I love walking in Europe — it’s the best way to truly explore a city, especially one as magical as Florence. The uphill path takes you through charming neighborhoods, past historic gates, and along green hills with glimpses of the Arno and city below (expect 30-60 minutes of steady climbing with plenty of photo stops). Arriving on foot makes that first panoramic reveal feel truly rewarding!
A few quick fun facts and history highlights:
- The abbey is a masterpiece of Florentine Romanesque architecture (11th–13th centuries), with its iconic green-and-white marble facade and geometric patterns that glow in the sunlight.
- It’s built on the legendary site where Saint Minias (San Miniato), Florence’s patron saint, was martyred in the 3rd century — beheaded on the Arno banks, he miraculously carried his own head up the hill to die!
- The abbey remains an active Benedictine monastery (Olivetan monks still live and worship here), with regular masses, beautiful Gregorian chants during services, and it’s a popular wedding venue — I even saw a ceremony happening the day I visited, adding to the romantic, timeless atmosphere!
- Behind the abbey lies the Porte Sante Cemetery (a monumental burial ground), home to notable Florentines including Carlo Collodi (Carlo Lorenzini), the creator of Pinocchio — his family chapel is tucked among the graves, often marked by flowers or little Pinocchio dolls left by fans.
This peaceful hilltop spot (less crowded than nearby Piazzale Michelangelo) is perfect for soaking in views that inspired Renaissance artists. Have you hiked up to San Miniato? Prefer the walk or the easy route? What’s your favorite Florence viewpoint or hidden gem? Share below — let’s geek out!
More Florence (and geeky adventures) coming soon. Safe travels!
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