Went to the Renaissance Fair...in Italy??

San Gimignano, is a small Medieval village an hour away from Florence. It is known as the Town with Fine Towers, and is completely walled off from the rest of Sienna, where it is located. The view looking over the walls is like looking into a little slice of heaven and has the most incredible skyline/view.

When walking into the village, it is like being transported back in time, since nothing has been touched since. It is still the same buildings from the 1400/1500s and all of the artwork hasn't been touched either. If you walk into any church they have half frescos on the wall, that have been chipped and scuffed up. To me it is more beautiful though, because there are no restorations and it is all authentic.

To make things even better, the 2nd time we went we traveled to San Gimignano on the weekend of its famous Historic Medieval Festival. Everyone was dressed in special outfits from the Medieval time period, there was a parade, and there were other various activities including a market and people sword fighting. The parade included singers, dancers, people playing the drums and other instruments, a juggler, etc!

The arts and crafts market covered the middle of the square and it was one of the only times where I found authentic/ handmade jewelry and crafts. Everywhere else I have been has had a lot of touristy shops. Another thing San Gimignano is known for is having the best gelato in the world. In fact, one shop has won multiple awards as the "Best Gelato in the World". And I would have to agree, it is the best that I have tasted. The flavors are so fresh and you can see them using real fruit in the process of making the flavors.

(my roommates and I)

(the best flatbread panini ever)