San Casciano in Val di Pesa
Welcome to San Casciano in Val di Pesa: a Tuscan town rich in history and goodness
San Casciano in Val di Pesa is a town in Tuscany, located in the metropolitan city of Florence. It is known for its production of wines, extra-virgin olive oil, and agricultural products. The territory covers an area of approximately 107.98 km² and is almost entirely included in the Chianti Classico subzone. Let's discover the main information about the physical geography and history of this charming town together.
Physical geography
Territory
The territory of San Casciano extends between the hills that separate the Val di Pesa and the Val di Greve, with an elevation that ranges from 72 meters in the Cerbaia plain to 510 meters in the Valigondoli area. The town is located at an altitude of 316 meters. San Casciano borders the communities of Montespertoli, Scandicci, Impruneta, Greve in Chianti, and Barberino Tavarnelle.
Climate and Seismicity
San Casciano has a climate characterized by cool summers and cold winters compared to Florence, due to its higher altitude, especially in the valleys. In winter, there are often snowfalls without significant accumulations. The area falls into zone 3s (seismicity) and zone E, with 2240 degree days of the Italian municipal climate classification. The atmospheric diffusivity is high.
History
The territory of San Casciano was already inhabited in the Etruscan period, as evidenced by the discoveries in Montefiridolfi and Valigondoli. During the Roman civilization, it was a well-known post station at the tenth mile from Florentia. The toponym Decimo is linked to the Pieve di Santa Cecilia a Decimo, already mentioned in 1043, which is a memory of a milestone on an important Roman road, probably the one that connected the colonies of Florentia and Sena Julia.
Archaeological finds and toponymic stratification attest to the antiquity of the settlement, whose density seems to find confirmation in the presence of four churches (pievi) and numerous other churches in the area. This dense humanization was already in progress in the Middle Ages, initially supported by the many castles that have now become farmhouses or rural residences.
Moreover, San Casciano was the seat of important noble families such as the Gherardini, Buondelmonti, and Cavalcanti. In 1192, it was the site of the famous Battle of Monteaperti between the Guelfs of Florence and the Ghibellines of Siena.
Typical products
San Casciano in Val di Pesa is mainly known for the production of fine wines, particularly of Chianti Classico, which is considered one of the most successful Italian wines worldwide. Among the wineries and wine companies present in the area, we can mention Antinori, Cerbaiona, Castello di Monsanto, and Fattoria di Bagnolo.
In addition to wine, San Casciano is renowned for its extra-virgin olive oil, honey, and high-quality agricultural products. The weekly market on Tuesdays is a unique opportunity to taste local delicacies and purchase typical products.
Events and Festivals
San Casciano in Val di Pesa is characterized by numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Among the most important, we recall:
Festa del Vino (Wine Festival): a three-day event dedicated to wine and local gastronomy that takes place every year in May.
Palio dei Ciuchi (Donkey Race): a race of donkeys held every year on the second Sunday of September.
Fiera della Madonna del Carmine (Fair of Our Lady of Mount Carmel): a traditional village fair held on July 16 in honor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Mercato dei Fiori e delle Piante (Flower and Plant Market): every year, on the second Sunday of May, the historic center of San Casciano hosts a special market dedicated to plants and flowers.
Conclusion
In summary, San Casciano in Val di Pesa is a charming Tuscan town where nature, history, culture, and gastronomy blend in a unique combination. Amidst the hills of Chianti, the Santa Cecilia a Decimo Pieve, and the famous fine wines, this town is an ideal destination for those looking for an authentic and genuine experience. Come and discover San Casciano in Val di Pesa!
