Fiesole is located only 8 kilometers away from Florence and it is often considered the outlying area of the capital. But in fact this place deserves special attention.
Fiesole location demonstrates that once in the past it was a place of greater importance rather than just “town of flowers” nowadays. Fiesole is situated on the top of the hill and rises over Florence that spreads in the valley. By the way, trip up the hill to Fiesole by serpentine road is especially attractive because you can have a chance to enjoy the spectacular view of Florence and shoot remarkable photos. And fresh mountain air is one more reason to visit this beautiful town.
Fiesole was founded as Etruscan settlement in the 7th century BC. Remnants of defensive City Walls and Etruscan Temple are the only remains of ancient culture. Reminders of Roman period in Fiesole are remains of Roman baths and Roman Theater for 3000 seats. All these attractions are being considered as archaeological zone of Fiesole.
Main architectural sights are concentrated on the central town square – Piazza Mino da Fiesole. Especially attractive is San Romolo Cathedral (XI-XIII CC) which is a real medieval architectural monument. Close to San Romolo Cathedral stands the Bishop’s Palace. And Palazzo Pretorio (Pretorio’s Palace) is located on the opposite side of the central square.
Travelling through Fiesole you should visit Bandini museum (Museo Bandini) which is located a little bit away from Piazza Mino da Fiesole behind San Romolo Cathedral. There you will have opportunity to get familiar with Italian art of XIII-XV CC.
It is interesting to know, that Giovanni Boccaccio often used Fiesole as scene of action in his notable works. Here in Fiesole in the manner of the ancient myths unfold the events of the poem "Ninfale Fiesolano” (Fiesole nymphs).
Here, on one of Fiesole villas, spend time characters of the famous "Decameron” amusing each other with stories.
