San Gimignano, a village in the Tuscany hills

The 15 medieval towers (a reminder of the 72 towers that used to rise during the period of greatest splendor) announce from far away the town's magnificence.

The amazement continues after entering one of the town gates, that open in the double enclosed wall, and walking up the silent streets flanked with ancient buildings.

The streets unexpectedly lead into three squares on the summit of the town, where the severe medieval buildings that surround them may be admired.