San Miniato Church
San Miniato Church is decorated with green and white marble in geometric patterns. These patterns are similar to the facades of Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce. A 12th-century mosaic decorates the facade over a central window.
The full name, San Miniato al Monte, stands atop one of the highest points in the city. It is described as one of the most scenic churches in Italy. It’s also one of the finest Romanesque structures in Tuscany.
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The Fresco Walls
Most noteworthy, besides the beautiful church itself, the walls are covered with beautiful and colorful frescoes. These frescoes are very well preserved. They are one of the true treasures of this church.
Looking at the Back
The bell tower collapsed in 1499 and was replaced in 1523. During the siege of Florence in 1530, the defenders used the tower as an artillery post.
When you finally reach the church (it’s quite a hike, or you can take the bus), you will enjoy an impressive view of Florence even higher up than the beautiful Piazza Michelangelo. You can even see the last standing parts of the medieval walls that once surrounded Florence. Here is a view when you are leaving the church.
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Defensive walls encompass the entire complex. These walls enclose a cemetery from 1854. The creator of Pinocchio, Carlo Collodi, is one of many buried in this cemetery.
In conclusion, it’s a bit funny because I say to myself, “Don’t do another post regarding a church”. Then we come across another church. This new find has amazing paintings, frescoes, and marblework.
In conclusion
San Miniato church is charming and surprisingly well-preserved. If you can’t make the walk, take the bus, and don’t miss this treasure. Being in Piazza Michaelangelo at sunset is another event you should experience too.
Editor’s Note: This post was initially published in January 2018 and updated in December 2024 for accuracy and additional information.
I’ve never been to Florence, but when I do, I won’t miss this!!
Ahhhh, Florence is my favorite place in Italy. As of today, anyway. When you are ready to go – we have lots of suggestions of places you shouldn’t miss!! Let us know!
My favorite, too!
What a beautiful building…and absolutely stunning photos…thanks for sharing!1
VAlerie
Beautiful photos and great post to read. Who doesn’t love Pinocchio growing up! Now I know where to go pay my respect to him anytime in Florence. San Miniato Church, indeed very high!
Ahhh…I love visiting historic churches when I travel. This church in Florence looks so stunning. Thank you for sharing your beautiful images. I enjoyed gazing on them and wishing I was in Italy too.
Thank you Denay for your comment. It’s funny because originally I never wanted to go into every church but… that is where the art is in it’s true surroundings! We now never miss a chance to enter one!
I’ve been to Florence but surprisingly not to San Miniato church. The pictures are amazing, especially the interiors. Wish I’d known about it before travelling..
Thank you Medha for your comment. I am hoping that this blog will be a resource for travelers. This way they can check out our suggestions for places to visit before they travel. Thanks!!
Beautiful place, and nice photos! I can’t wait to visit there one day, thanks for sharing :))
Thank you ! A wonderful place !
“SEE, I have climbed the mountain side
Up to this holy house of God,
Where once that Angel-Painter trod
Who saw the heavens opened wide…”
Thanks for taking a peek!
Having studied in Florence the summer of 1987, and having returned multiple times, I can’t believe I haven’t been to San Miniato Church! I’ve been to Piazzale Michelangelo several times, but never made the walk further up the hill. I had plans to do so in 2023, but it turned out to be a very rainy day and we were in a van on the way to Siena, San Gimignano, and the Chianti wine region for a taste testing! The driver wanted to keep on going after we finished getting some quick pictures in Piazzale Michelangelo. I love always having an excuse to return to my beloved Florence!
I am surprised, Tom, that you were there for an entire summer and didn’t get there. It’s not too far from Piazzale Michelangelo! But then again, with so much to see and do, we always say, “Leave something to return to.” And you did!!
This church is magical and the views are spectacular. We were fortunate enough many years ago to go to the lower level and listen to the mass. The chanting was unlike anything I ever experienced. Thank you for sharing!
We’re happy to hear you were able to see and experience this church. Because it’s a bit out of the way, I think so many people miss it. Thanks for commenting!
We will be in Florence March 2,3 and 4th of 2025.
I am trying to determine the times of the vespers in San Miniato. Any information would be so helpful.
There is conflicting information about time, but I can gather that the monks sing Gregorian Chants at Vespers each day at 5:30 p.m. in the summer and 4:30 p.m. in the winter. When in Florence, I would go to the Information Office and check with them. Or, you can check out this website: https://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/florence-san-miniato-al-monte. Hope this helps.