Tuscany 2005 -- Part 7: San Gimignano

San Gimignano was a hotspot in the 12th and 13th centuries because of it's strategic hilltop location on the major pilgrim route between Europe and Rome. The major families kept one-upping themselves with tower building during it's heyday so there are 13 historic towers in this small town nestled in the Chianti wine region. More lovely little streets to stroll along (some steep, of course).
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005 (photo by SZap). San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
On the road to San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005 (photo by SZap).
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
We even took Robert on his first tower climb.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005 (photo by SZap). San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
The views were stunning (and less hazy this day). But we didn't realize that the bells in the tower were still in use -- and very loud from 10 feet away!
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
Sarah promised Robert we would look for swings while we were wandering the town, but we didn't really expect to find any. He was very happy when we did though... San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
The spectacular views were not limited to the top of the tower; the town is on an impressive hill.
And the views in town were also quite lovely.
San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
On the road from San Gimignano Tuscany 2005. On the road from San Gimignano Tuscany 2005.
A couple of early contenders in the sunflower photo contest on the road back from San Gimignano. The next day was a rest day for us, then we headed off to drive around the Chianti district (and sample a bit along the way...).