Small historical town of Fiesole located at the hills which spread above the Florence. The view of Florence from Fiesole it’s one of the main city attractions. Also it’s good place where you can make off for a few hours from the overcrowded Florence.
Fiesole is older city than Florence. It was already settled in Bronze Age and further had developed by Etruscans. In the Middle Ages, until the 12th century Fiesole was the main rival of Florence. But after it was took by Florence and became its small satellite.
Many of famous Florentine families considered the Fiesole as their second residence, especially in the summer time, and built their villas here. And Medici were not exceptions from this list.
After the Florencians sacked the city in 1125 only one building has been left untouched. It was Duomo which stands in Piazza Minio. Unfortunately what was not done in 12th century occurred in 19th during the unsuccessful attempt of its restoration.
Inside the Duomo most interesting things are – pictures by Bicci di Lorenzo which were executed in 1140s and the Cappella Salutati which is decorated by wonderful carvings.
Next to the Duomo there are a few town museums – the Teatro Romano and Museo Archeologico. Teatro Romano – is a roman vestiges in Fiesole. This theater has been built in the 1 century BC and could accommodate about 3000 visitors.
It was discovered at the end of the 19th centuries, restored and today here are conducting local Fiesolina festival. In the Archeological Museum of Fiesole you can see ancient artifacts from the Bronze Age to the Roman times.
At the end of Via San Francesco street you can find Sant’Alessandro and San Francesco churches. If you go further then you will find small terrace with excellent view of Florence below.
Sant’Alessandro church originates from the 16th century. It was built over the ruins of pagan ancient temple. Church looks very poor outside but inside you can see wonderful marble columns which provably survived from the Roman times.
San Francesco church stands over the ancient Roman Forum of Fiesole. Most notable thing inside – is Immaculate Conception by Piero di Cosimo. Next to the church there is a small public park which is descending back to the city center.
From the east of Teatro Romano there are Etruscan tombs which are dated by the 3 century BC. You easily find them if you will follow signposts.
Probably you will find interesting to visit village of San Domenico which is located southwest of Fiesole. The distance to the village is short and you don’t need to use transport. At this village you can find small church which was Fiesole’s Duomo from 9th to 11th centuries. In 15 century this church has been rebuilt but its façade was left untouched.
