Piazza Mino
Fiesole’s history goes back into the mists of time. As Faesulae, it was an important Etruscan town, commanding the Arno valley from its defensive heights. The Romans encouraged a new settlement, Florentia, on the plain by the river, to drain importance from Fiesole, and gradually Florence became the more important of the two towns. After various spats, the Florentines destroyed Fiesole in the 12th century, since when it has enjoyed quiet, insignificant independence.
The local artist Fra Angelico lived and worked in the monastery of San Domenico before descending to San Marco in Florence. Its peace and fresher air made Fiesole a popular resort for rich Florentines who wanted to escape the heat, smells and crowds of the city, and many fine villas were built on the slopes around the town.
From central Florence you can get to Fiesole on the number 7 urban bus.
Departing from the railway station, this passes the Duomo and Piazza San Marco before heading out of town and up the hill to Fiesole.
The bus drops you in the town square, Piazza Mino da Fiesole.
Immediately you can begin to admire the town’s views, and maybe enjoy a drink or snack on the panoramic terrace of the Blue Bar next to the bus stop.
Around the piazza are some of the town’s most important buildings: the Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop’s Palace), originally buit in the 11th century; the town’s cathedral, the Cattedrale San Romolo, constructed and enlarged between the 11th and 14th centuries, which contains some fine frescoes; Palazzo Pretorio, the seat of the town council; and the early Chiesa di Santa Maria Primerana.
