If you dream of strolling through green hills while soaking in the warm Tuscan sun, visit the city of Borgo San Lorenzo. About 12 miles from Florence, Borgo San Lorenzo sits amongst the verdant slopes of the Sieve River. Well known for its artisanal pottery as well as its natural setting, the city has a long, colorful history.
Set on the site of an ancient Roman hamlet called Annejanum, Borgo San Lorenzo sprang up around the central court of the Ubaldis. This powerful family profited from the city’s proximity to two major trade routes connecting the Borgo San Lorenzo valley to commercial center of Florence. From the eighth through 14th centuries, the region was an area of dispute, with groups ranging from the Florentine bishops to the French army fighting to control this agriculturally rich area. The city was fortified by walls and gates in the 1300s; some ruins of these remain today. During the 18th century, Borgo San Lorenzo fell under the protection of the Dukedom of Lorena. The new leadership restored much of the city and grew both its economy and population.
Though many structures were destroyed over centuries of struggle, tourists can marvel at the architectural wonders that remain. The Borgo San Lorenzo region was the home of the Medici family and many works of art remain from this period. From the Praetorian Palace, home of the modern-day government, to the 13th century Villa Pecori Giraldi, the Parish Church of San Lorenzo and the Saint Omonoro Santuary, the city is filled with period structures and priceless artwork.
Borgo San Lorenzo is home to a number of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, many of which center around the city’s patron saint, St. Lorenzo, from parades and carnivals to sporting events.
In keeping with the rest of Tuscany, Borgo San Lorenzo experiences sunny, mild weather throughout the year. Winter temperatures range from highs in the 50s to lows in the upper 30s, while summers experience high 80s during the day and mid-60s at night. October through December experience the most precipitation, though March and April also tend to be rainy.
The region’s high season stretches from mid-April through September, with most international tourists visiting during the warmest months of July and August. Vacationing Italians often visit during Christmas and Easter, as well. If you want to avoid the crowds but while still experiencing pleasant weather, plan your trip for April, May, October or November, when the tourist season is light but the weather is still good.
