Stibbio

The tiny hamlet of Stibbio has a history that goes back to 1081, or even before. But that's the date that the town first appears in documents. Starting in the 12th century it was a feudal territory of San Miniato, and except for a few brief periods where it passed to Pisa and to Florence, it remained largely tied to San Miniato. Today it still is, as a frazione (administrative hamlet). The castle was built in the 1100s, but only traces of it remain.

The pastel-painted village bears the church of San Bartolomeo, from the medieval era. Folks are friendly and there is a store and coffee bar. Because it is 8 kilometers from San Miniato, a visit there is in order; the town is frequently overlooked (but shouldn't be!). Drive the road to Montebicchieri, south of Stibbio. It follows a ridge and the panoramas are breathtaking. Montopoli and Cigola are other charming hamlets in the area. Nearby Ponte a Egola offers services, restaurants and shops. Pisa is only 40 minutes away and it's only about an hour to Florence.