On a trip to Tuscany, this is the place to stay. It is halfway between Florence and Siena, and not far from San Gimignano and Volterra. This beauty of a town is small but still shows its medieval heritage. The main part of town is still surrounded by the walls built back in the 12th century for protection. So many touches of the original remain, such as arches and towers.

Who doesn't love Tuscan doors?

archways in back streets

San Donato’s history goes back to the war between Siena and Florence in the 1200s. The town was used as a stopover for people traveling from the major power in the area, Florence when they made their way to Rome.

backstreet stairway

back streets at dusk

In 1176 and 1265, peace treaties were signed in this small town between Siena and Florence, two cities who were always at odds with each other.

Tuscan views

Tuscan view from outside the walls of San Donato

The main street in town is Via del Giglio. On either end, you will still find the original archways leading into or out of this little town. There is a very pretty little Piazza with an ancient cistern right in the middle of it.




Via del Giglio and the best restaurant in town

On the corner of the Piazza is Palazzo Malaspina. I am not mentioning Palazzo Malaspina because it is one of the best B&Bs to stay while in Tuscany, but because of its historic significance, once being a Palace for Italian Royalty.

Piazza and Palazzo Malaspina

fountain

The town is small, but the back streets, side streets, and views of Tuscany are amazing. Around every turn and corner, you will find the beauty of Tuscany.

wisteria everywhere

Enjoy the photos I have included to show you what a quaint town this is. And if you want more info about San Donato in Poggio or want to see more photos of Tuscany,please contact me at iwanttogotherephoto[at]yahoo.com

hidden gems

Joe Mack is a Photographer, Writer, and Musician who lives in the Hudson Valley of New York State. He travels as much as possible to take these great photos presented here and more in the near future. His favorite place to go to is Quebec City in Canada. He tells me it is as close to being in France as you can get without leaving the continent. He is close to New York City and takes day trips there often. He loves going to the Caribbean, French St Martin in particular. Keeping watching for more photos and articles from Joe.

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www.viewbug.com/member/Vacation_Photography

Other articles by Joe here on Wandering Educators:

Pisa: Not Just the Tower