Piazza delle Erbe is one of several picturesque squares that decorate San Gimignano’s old town. It takes its name from a weekly fresh produce market that takes place here erbe is the Italian word for herbs. The square is also known as Piazza Ugo Nomi, after the priest of an aristocratic family. Piazza delle Erbe is the quieter of the town’s squares and a great place to sit and collect your thoughts.
Framing the square are some fine instances of medieval brick houses. Pay attention to the elegant shutter windows and the flower-filled balconies. Soaring above the east side are two massive towers. They were originally part of the palace of the Salvuccis, one of the town’s most powerful families. Today the towers house a hotel with exquisite views of the medieval townscape.
Find a seat on the terrace of the one café and enjoy a moment of people-watching. Observe the reactions of tourists toward the impressive buildings and have your camera ready to snap postcard-worthy shots.
Visit the square on a Saturday, when local traders come to offer fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices. On Thursday, market stalls spread across the town’s main squares and offer everything from antiques to trinkets and clothing.
Find Piazza delle Erbe located in the heart of San Gimignano’s old town. It connects to the south with Piazza Duomo and you can easily visit both squares in a day of sightseeing. Dominating Piazza Duomo is the Collegiate Church of San Gimignano, famous for its paintings of scenes from the Old and New Testaments. While here, browse further collections of ancient art inside the San Gimignano Communal Palace.
If you are on a walking tour of the town then continue from Piazza Duomo to Piazza della Cisterna. This historic gathering place is lined with grandiose gateways, towers and palaces.
