Certaldo
Certaldo: The Birthplace of Giovanni Boccaccio
Welcome to Certaldo, a Tuscan town located in the metropolitan city of Florence, famous as the birthplace and final resting place of the celebrated poet and writer Giovanni Boccaccio. With its population of 15479, this town hosts numerous buildings of historical, cultural, and artistic interest. Let's find out more about this charming location in this article.
Physical Geography
The territory of Certaldo is crossed by the Elsa River and the Agliena Stream, which flows into it. The town of Certaldo is divided into two distinct parts: the medieval part, called Certaldo Alto, is located on a hill and hosts the famous Palazzo Pretorio, while the lower part is located in the plain and was developed from the end of the 18th century.
Certaldo Alto is accessible both by car (due to the limited traffic for residents only) and by a rack-and-pinion funicular departing from Piazza Boccaccio.
Origin of the Name
The name of the municipality of Certaldo has an uncertain origin. It is composed of "cerretum", which can be translated as "Quercus cerris forest", which became "cert-" and "alto" or "Aldo", a proper name that could be associated with a specific toponym present in Germany. This can be deduced from the fact that there are several Central-Northern toponyms that have a similar element.
History
Etruscan-Roman Period
Certaldo has ancient origins and dates back to the Etruscan-Roman period, as shown by the numerous archaeological finds found throughout the area, including ceramics, utensils, and Etruscan tombs, some of which were recently discovered. The toponymy of some places and watercourses, such as the Agliena Stream and the Elsa River, suggests the presence of the Etruscans in the area.
On the Poggio del Boccaccio, a hill near the medieval village, an Etruscan-Hellenistic chamber tomb from the late 4th century-early 3rd century BC and a foodstuff well deposit with some Hellenistic-era pottery tools were discovered. The area was likely a granary since 300 BC.
In other excavations carried out near the Poggio delle Fate, an artificial hill located southeast of the village, an underground grain store with compartments and the remains of an Etruscan tumulus were found.
Medieval Period
Certaldo has great historical importance in the Middle Ages, as shown by its architectural buildings. The Palazzo Pretorio, located in Certaldo Alto, is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and was built in the 13th century. This building was the seat of the podestà, the figure in charge of representing the central power, and of the imperial vicar until the 18th century.
What to See in Certaldo
Certaldo is a town rich in monuments and places of interest. The historic center of Certaldo Alto, with its ancient gate and medieval walls, is a fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets, arches, and stone houses that are all well preserved. The Church of San Tommaso and Prospero is a Romanesque church located in the medieval part of the city. It was built in the 13th century by St. Thomas Becket, Bishop of Canterbury.
In addition, you can visit the house of Giovanni Boccaccio, the Barbadori Tower, the house of the renowned painter Benozzo Gozzoli, the Vicars' Palace, and the Church of San Michele Arcangelo. Certaldo is also known for its festivals, particularly the Mercantia, a street artists festival held every year in the summer.
Culture and Traditions
Certaldo is a city that has kept its traditions alive. For example, every year it organizes the Fiera di San Giuseppe, a festival held on March 19th. During the festival, markets, games, shows are organized, and traditional San Giuseppe cake, a zeppola filled with cream is eaten.
Furthermore, the city organizes cultural events and exhibitions of music, theater, and dance throughout the year, such as the Book Fair, the Certaldo Jazz Festival, and the Medieval Village Festival.
Conclusion
Certaldo is a town rich in history, culture, and Tuscan charm. With its archaeological finds, medieval historic center, and traditional festivals, this city is the ideal place to discover the real Tuscany. If you are traveling to Tuscany, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit Certaldo!
