Basilica di San Miniato

Abbey · Gamberia

Basilica di San Miniato

Abbey · Gamberia

5

Via delle Porte Sante, 34, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

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Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null
Basilica di San Miniato by null

Highlights

San Miniato al Monte, a stunning 11th-century Romanesque church atop Florence, offers breathtaking city views, intricate mosaics, and peaceful gardens.  

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Via delle Porte Sante, 34, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Get directions

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Via delle Porte Sante, 34, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Get directions

+39 055 234 2731
sanminiatoalmonte.it

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Last updated

Jul 31, 2025

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@cntraveler

Off Season Italy: Florence Comes Alive in Fall, According to Italy Segreta Founder Marina Cacciapuoti

"A viewpoint offering stunning sunset views, accessible via a scenic walk."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/florence-off-season
View Postcard for Basilica di San Miniato
@afar

"Walk to San Miniato al Monte for the Best Views of Florence Most people who visit Florence know that walking to Piazzale Michelangelo is a must. However, fewer people know that walking a little higher to the old church of San Miniato al Monte is an even better experience. Amble down the Arno River to Viale G. Poggi, up the green pathways to Piazzale Michelangelo, then continue on untilyou reachthe busy square with a bronze cast of Michelangelo's David at its center. This church facing the square is one of the oldest in the area, a beautiful 12th-century example of Romanesque architecture. Note, especially, the mosaics on the facade and, inside, above the altar; the floor decorations are also worth a look. There is also a small shop next to the church, run by monks. Take in the views from the outside, stroll the grounds, and see the old cemetery. Entrance to the church is free, and if you're lucky, you might even hear the monks singing."

A Week in Florence and Tuscany
View Postcard for Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte
@afar

"Walk to San Miniato al Monte for the Best Views of Florence Most people who visit Florence know that walking to Piazzale Michelangelo is a must. However, fewer people know that walking a little higher to the old church of San Miniato al Monte is an even better experience. Amble down the Arno River to Viale G. Poggi, up the green pathways to Piazzale Michelangelo, then continue on untilyou reachthe busy square with a bronze cast of Michelangelo's David at its center. This church facing the square is one of the oldest in the area, a beautiful 12th-century example of Romanesque architecture. Note, especially, the mosaics on the facade and, inside, above the altar; the floor decorations are also worth a look. There is also a small shop next to the church, run by monks. Take in the views from the outside, stroll the grounds, and see the old cemetery. Entrance to the church is free, and if you're lucky, you might even hear the monks singing."

The Best Things to Do in Florence
View Postcard for Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte
@afar

"Walk to San Miniato al Monte for the Best Views of Florence Most people who visit Florence know that walking to Piazzale Michelangelo is a must. However, fewer people know that walking a little higher to the old church of San Miniato al Monte is an even better experience. Amble down the Arno River to Viale G. Poggi, up the green pathways to Piazzale Michelangelo, then continue on untilyou reachthe busy square with a bronze cast of Michelangelo's David at its center. This church facing the square is one of the oldest in the area, a beautiful 12th-century example of Romanesque architecture. Note, especially, the mosaics on the facade and, inside, above the altar; the floor decorations are also worth a look. There is also a small shop next to the church, run by monks. Take in the views from the outside, stroll the grounds, and see the old cemetery. Entrance to the church is free, and if you're lucky, you might even hear the monks singing."

Wood grain pattern
If You Only Have Three Days in Florence
View Postcard for Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte
@victoire_loup

The oldest and most beautiful church in Florence, overlooking the entire city and the Piazzale Michelangelo.

Florence and Tuscany
View Postcard for Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte

Gary Griffith

Google
Located above the Piazza Michelangelo this church has a great view. The cemetery is beautiful and many of the monuments feature recognizable names. Inside the church has an understated grace that still inspires awe. All in all a lovely visit and a recommended stop.

herm dig

Google
The church was undergoing repair in February 2025 and the front facade and part of the nave was scaffolded. The architect and contractor are maintaining public access and in fact are providing exemplary information boards about the work and offering occasional conducted tours. The church is impressive inside and out and learning how the fabric is being repaired is fascinating. The work will go on for many months.

Matthew Johnson

Google
Stunning view of the valley and hills. You can walk around on ruins of the Roman amphitheater, Etruscan temple, Roman temple and Roman baths. Worth the entry fee imo.

Ben D

Google
Beautiful church but sadly it has has bell tower works at the moment so you can’t see much of it. The view of Florence is amazing though.

Rob Moore

Google
BASILICA CLOSED FOR CONSTRUCTION 3/6/25 until October. The little pharmacia shop is open closed mid day opens 4-6pm. Did not stay or inquire about prayers and chants, but doubtful since the whole transept is surrounded by scaffolding and ropes off. Disability Note: there are NO disabled toilets here-at all-there is a monitored toilet near the entrance by the pharmacia shop for able bodied people but not accessible by wheelchair and no toilet inside the church.

TJ Kim

Google
Just a little further up from Piazzale Michelangelo, this spot is well known for its stunning Florence sunsets. Many people come here hoping to catch the sunset, but since the gates close around 7:00 PM, the best view is from the steps just below. At the moment, the bell tower is under renovation, and the interior of the monastery feels a bit cluttered with scaffolding and supports. Still, it remains a peaceful, humble, and truly beautiful place. Even outside of sunset hours, it’s well worth visiting together with the San Miniato al Monte church nearby.

Buster Got it

Google
I believe this is the highest point on this hill. Beautiful church and a good view of the city of Florence from this church area. Please check out the interior, small grave yard, backyard, and the garden as well.

Raymond Chenon

Google
The basilic has the best on Florence city. Most stay at Parcheggio del Piazzale for the view. This is the best kept secret , keep it for you. The inside of the Basilic is splendid. I arrived at before 19h on weekday, the was a ceremony. The songs were really nice. The entrance is free.
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Fred T.

Yelp
I will be honest here, this was not on my list. I had walked from my apartment to see the Piazzale Michelangelo, and using side streets had seen this church in the distance so I figured why not? It was a great choice IMHO. This church is located on one of the high points of the city and offered spectacular views of the old city. The church itslef was also fantastic. It was free to enter and boasted some spectacular architecture. There was an much older alter at the rear of the church as well. it is surrounded by a huge cemetery as well. Be forewarned however that there are a lot of steps but the views and are spectacular. One of the benifits is that the location and climb does help thin out the masses as most simply head to the Piazzale Michelangelo and call it a day.
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Lisa S.

Yelp
What a beautiful church. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, the architecture and frescoes are stunning. Take a walk in back of the church to view the tributes to lost one's. The monuments, statues, pictures, and flowers all show the importance and love of family. One tomb with life sized husband and wife dancing was so beautiful and so sad that they didn't live long enough to grow old together. We took a taxi to the top and walked back down a path into Florence. The views from the church are stunning. The crowds are thin. This was a wonderful way to see the city from above.
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Shanelle S.

Yelp
Definitely come up to San Miniato for the views of the city. There's less people compared to Piazzale Michelangelo and the view is so pretty. It's free to enter the church as well, which is multi-level. It's a very peaceful environment and there are a few people who come in to pray. There were quite a bit of stairs to climb, so be ready for a brief workout. It's within walking distance from the city center and there were quite a few people running to workout.
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Joanna T.

Yelp
If you're visiting the Piazzlle Michaelangelo, take a short detour to this gorgeous Basilica. It's one of the highest points in the city, and offers great, less crowded views. We took a bus most of the way and then hiked up a long flight of steps to get to the church. The complex is impressive - the church is Romanesque and really hasn't changed much since it was built in the 1100's. When we visited the high altar area was being restored but we were still able to see the Gaddi frescoes in the crypt and get a great view of the apse mosaics from the choir platform. I like that the church isn't lit by electricity (though you can pay a euro to light the apse) - you really get a sense of what it was like when it was built. And of course like every church in Florence it's full of art by mostly Renaissance masters. When you're done in the church, there's a peaceful cemetery to explore. Many of the tombs are ornate, and it's a lovely place for a stroll. If you wonder why there are so many Pinocchio toys for sale in the city, it's because the creator was Florentine and is buried here. Finally - don't miss the small store in the courtyard. They sell wonderful monastic made products - lotions, elixirs, liqueurs, sweets and teas. It's what Santa Maria Novella used to be before all the tourist hordes. Prices are really reasonable and the quality is great - these are souvenirs you won't find elsewhere. I left with lavender hand cream (smells heavenly), loose herbal tea and a packet of freshly baked orange cookies. Absolutely worth a visit.
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Ann G.

Yelp
First stop on our Fiat tour and it blew our minds. It truly is one of the most gorgeous Romanesque structures in Tuscany and one of the finest churches in Italy. Built in 1018, there are crypts, frescoes, and pulpits that will make you cry. On top of all that, during the siege of Florence in 1530 it was used as an artillery post by the defenders and Michelangelo had it wrapped in mattresses to protect it from enemy fire. Insane!If you're in Tuscany, well worth a visit! If you're a film buff, it's also home to the family tomb of Franco Zeffirelli,
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Maggi R.

Yelp
We took the bus up to San Miniato al Monte (St. Minias on the Mountain), a basilica standing atop one of the highest points in the city. It has been described as one of the finest Romanesque structures in Tuscany and one of the most scenic churches in Italy. Unfortunately, the bus got us only so far - we had to walk up winding roads to actually gain access to the church. It has some of the most spectacular views of Florence; I think even better than the views from Piazzale Michelangelo. Make sure you go behind the church to view the city in all of its glory. The Basilica recently celebrated its 1,000th birthday. Don't forget to look up at Luca della Robbia's extraordinary glazed terracotta ceiling depicting the four cardinal virtues (Temperance, Prudence, Justice and Fortitude), with the dove of the Holy Spirit in the middle surrounded by seven candlestick holders, symbols of the seven-branched menorah of Judaic tradition. The Basilica is simple and elegant; but, has a trove of artistic treasures that make the steep walk up the many steps or the road more than worth the effort. Next to the church was the Cimitero delle Porte Sante (Cemetery of the Holy Doors), which is called a monumental cemetery because of the many elaborate headstones (often sculptures) throughout the cemetery. As we walked through, we noted many graves followed the Italian custom of having permanent photographs of the deceased attached to them. Many famous Italians are buried, such as Carlo Collodi, who created Pinocchio, painter Pietro Annigoni, and politician Giovanni Spadolini.
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Mia L.

Yelp
9.10.16: So much to see and so much to do. All the churches here are huge. I guess I'm just not used to that. We decided to check this out after the Michelangelo Plaza. It was a higher point with lesser people. We stood outside a bit before going in because it looked like there was an event or something going on. The front is big and empty. Which is nice. We walked around outside and enjoy the view from up there. A bit further from the view but definitely nice to enjoy without the crowd if that's what you prefer. Got a chance to go inside and view just the first floor. The art was amazing, but I noticed they were closing so I took some quick pictures and headed out. Right next to it is a small cemetery. Angels and sculptures, and what I called little houses. It's amazing architecture. Great stop by..
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Michelle M.

Yelp
If you have already made the steep hike to the Piazzale Michelangelo be sure to walk a little further up the hill to visit the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte. The views from this hilltop are breathtaking! The Basilica di San Miniato al Monte (aka: St. Minias on the Mountain) is a beautiful Romanesque church that is situated at the highest point in Firenze. San Miniato dates back to 783, but it was rebuilt from scratch in 1018 because the church was badly neglected. There are beautiful gardens and cemeteries surrounding San Miniato. Some famous Italians are buried at the cemetery, including: Carlo Collodi, creator of Pinocchio; painter Pietro Annigoni; poet and author Luigi Ugolini; film producer Mario Cecchi Gori; painter Maria Luisa Ugolini Bonta; opera singer Marietta Piccolomini; children's author Lydia Ugolini; and writer Giovanni Papini. We visited the church during Sunday mass and it was amazing to hear the service in Italian. I would have liked to return during the evening to hear the Gregorian chants, but we didn't have enough time during our visit. Jam Tarts, chocolate cakes and strudels, biscotti, and candles are handcrafted in the laboratories of the monastery and are available for sale at the monastic pharmacy daily from 10:00-18:00. You can order these items three days prior by phone #348-992-59-05.
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Danella L.

Yelp
If you visit Florence and fail to come to this spot you're an absolute idiot. This is my happy place, because it is just so beautiful and relaxing. The view is breath taking, the feeling from being on top of the city is priceless. You cannot miss this. The basics: Small gardens, beautiful basilica (and free entrance), benches outside, amazing artwork (the floors!! the doors!!! ah!!!), incredible history (wikipedia is your friend), very old tombstones and graves, and if you're lucky you can spot the monks setting up the altar downstairs. Before or after you go inside the basilica, walk around it and relax in the mini forest. It's directly around and behind the fortress. I am tempted to not tell people about it because I love how quiet and peaceful it is. You must also go and hear the gregorian chants, they start every evening at 630. Go out now and get lost around this place! So worth it!
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Sarah M.

Yelp
I may sound presumptuous, but I can definitely state that this is the most beautiful church of Florence. First, to get there, any boulevard you take will cheer you up with the freshness of the trees and those brief glimpses of the city center... Then you pass the David ("Helloooo David"). Resume your sense of dignity after being completely bulldozed by the view from the terrace, and when you turn your head you see it. There: majestic and white, symmetric, a symbol reigning over Florence from the top of its hill: San Miniato al Monte Church Well hurry up, the magic has yet to happen! Promise you'll follow my guide: 1) Climb the stairs without ever EVER turning back 2) Once on top, take a few seconds to regain your breath and freeze your gaze on the fantastic masterpiece you have in front of you 3) Draw in the details: the doors, the color of marble, the lights and shadows playing with the angles 4) Before getting in, now, turn your head and look at the panorama I know - Selfie time. Visiting the indoor, although it's quite dark, you can certainly appreciate the frescos. Don't forget to visit the crypt and if you are lucky to be there for the chime of the hour, sit, close your eyes and silently wait for the bells to sing its song. If you are perceptive, you will also feel the vibrations of the bells, a sound that echoes in your body, awakening your good energies. After you are satisfied with your tour, go out and pay a visit to the pharmacy on your right. Impossible not to buy something, get there and you'll see why. Then, if you still have time, have a walk in the cemetery. I know it sounds creepy, but there are pieces of art scattered all over this garden. Go and look for them! I hope your pleased, now get out of here and have a glass of wine! Tuscany inspires.
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Kanchan B.

Yelp
Right around the corner of the Pizzale Michelangelo, is this beautiful church and while the views from its front steps are maybe not as spectacular as the ones from the Pizzale, I reckon here you would visit not just for the view, but also the gorgeous frescos adorning the church and the fantastic shop, where artisanal, hand made products can be purchased (pottery, soaps, perfumes, etc). This church is from the 11th century, and has the typical Tuscan multicolored green and white marble laid out in geometric patterns and this type of facade you can see also in Sienna Duomo, Church of San Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella. What really surprised me is that the interior is completely without lights, so you get to experience the church as folks would have before the advent of electricity. The frescoes adorning the walls of the church still shine bright however and I particularly loved the intricate inlaid marble design that lined the nave. There is also a beautiful mosaic which decorates the facade over a central window, and reminded me of St Marks in Venice. The church also has a cemetery, with beautiful headstones from thought the ages and is famous as the final resting place of Carlo Collodi, creator of Pinocchio. The little shop is just fantastic and plenty of locals were here, buying soaps - one lady recommended my buying the parfums and I also saw a lot of herbal, plant- based medicines and creams using very natural ingredients, and hand made by the nuns who still live here! Absolutely worth a visit!
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Adriano M.

Yelp
Wow. I've been to Florence dozens of times, and only seen San Miniato's white marble façade from below. I had no idea that the interior of the church was do ornate. Certainly worth a visit!
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Heather L.

Yelp
After hiking up the hill, seeing the view, and then seeing the inside of this church... it is a definite must see when you are in Florence! Mountain Man and I took a very roundabout way as we wanted to see the Boboli Gardens, however when we arrived and Mountain Man had seen that it cost money, we decided to keep walking. We discovered Fort Belvedere and the Piazzale Michaelangelo. Work BFF met up with us at Piazzale Michaelangelo and we continued to San Miniato. It was stunning! And while there were a fair number of tourists wandering about, it didn't seem crowded and it was very quiet and peaceful. A great place to get away from the crowds, the bustle, and just reflect. There is no cost to go inside the church, however there is a machine where you can deposit a euro and it lights up the ceiling above the altar. Yes, Work BFF and I were intrigued by this machine, standing by itself and we wanted to know what it did. Work BFF put a euro in and it was like the heavens opened and this light illuminated the art above the altar. After you look around, take a moment to sit, and enjoy the peacefulness, take in the view, reflect. We all took some time to sit outside of the church and admire the view over the city. While we did take time to reflect and enjoy the peacefulness outside as well, we also had Mountain Man read aloud information about the church from our guide book (he has a British accent, so it sounds much better) so we could fully appreciate the church.
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Jesus V.

Yelp
Definitely one of the highlights while in Florence. The view is one, if not the best. You don't even have to pay to walk into the basilica like most churches in Italy. Pictures don't even do this place justice and would upload a video of the location if only yelp would let me, just so you could get an idea of how beautiful this place is. A plus is the small number of tourists. A great place to have some quiet time, consumed in your thoughts, if any. Very spiritual.
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Brooks A.

Yelp
Even considering all the great places Florence has to offer, San Miniato al Monte was my favorite. I made the trek up the hill checked out the basilica after a pit stop at Piazzale Michelangelo somewhat earlier in the morning while there were still remnants of the morning's dense fog. I highly recommend walking up the hill in the morning and going around the back of the church where you'll enjoy the quiet serenity of a foggy morning overlooking Tuscany's hillside country. Make your way to the front and you'll enjoy unparalleled views of the City of Florence before entering the church. The inside of the church, while itself relatively simple by Italy's standards, is nonetheless impressive for both its views and its history, which is worth learning more about. Make sure you get here if you visit Florence!

Andrew G.

Yelp
Just got kicked out of this church for wearing shorts. I don't view the attached as being immodest given the 95 degree heat during the Summer in Florence. I don't see how this is showing the love of Jesus. I guess these folks are vastly superior to us.
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Lorenzo P.

Yelp
San Miniato al Monte is a special place. Apart from the church itself that it's quite special, there is a beautiful view (only rival to Piazzale Michelangelo, in my opinion) and a very interesting graveyard where all famous Florentines have been buried.