Bagno a Ripoli, a town spread among rolling hills and ancient parish churches

All around Florence! Discover the extensive municipality of Bagno a Ripoli, the gateway to the Chianti region. Part of its territory is crossed by the magnificent Via Chiantigiana, and for centuries it has been known as the “garden of Florence.” Located just 7 km east of the city's historic centre, it is a landscape of beautiful farmhouses nestled among rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and breathtaking scenery.

What to See in the Municipality of Bagno a Ripoli

Bagno a Ripoli is a municipality in the Florentine area renowned for its gentle hilly landscape and its unique, widespread structure. Rather than being centred around one large urban settlement, it consists of a collection of villages and hamlets that have preserved their distinct identities and strong connection to the surrounding territory, creating a diverse and vibrant community.

The Main Villages: Bagno a Ripoli, Grassina, Antella, and Ponte a Ema

At the heart of the municipality is Bagno a Ripoli itself, home to the town hall and the administrative centre of the area. Originally founded by the Etruscans under the name Marm, it lies just 2 km from the left bank of the Arno River. Its present-day name derives from the presence of an ancient Roman thermal establishment, while Ripulae refers to the hydraulic embankments built to protect the area from flooding by the Arno.

Grassina is known for its lively atmosphere and local traditions, most notably the Historical Re-enactment of the Passion of Christ, one of the oldest events of its kind in Italy. Antella is home to the beautiful Pieve of Santa Maria, documented as early as 1040. Ponte a Ema, divided between the municipalities of Bagno a Ripoli and Florence by the Ema River, is famous for its rich cycling heritage. It is home to the Gino Bartali Cycling Museum, dedicated to the legendary champion and one of the town's greatest sources of pride.

Exploring the wider municipality reveals an extraordinary historical and architectural heritage, including Etruscan and Roman archaeological remains, picturesque medieval castles such as the Tower with the Olive Tree at Quarate Castle, and the Gualchiere di Remole, a rare surviving example of a medieval industrial complex. Another remarkable landmark is the ancient Spedale del Bigallo, built in the 13th century along one of the most important pilgrimage routes as a refuge for the poor and a place of rest and refreshment for travellers.

Among the area's many historic villas are the Medici Villa of Lapeggi, Villa La Tana in the hamlet of Candeli, the splendid Villa Mondeggi with its beautiful park featuring walking trails and picnic areas, and Villa Vecchietti, enriched by the enchanting nymphaeum known as the Fonte della Fata Morgana. Still surrounded by local legends, it once housed a statue of the fairy sculpted by Giambologna.

The area's remarkable historical wealth is also reflected in its ancient parish churches, including the Pieve of San Donnino in Villamagna, probably founded in the 8th century, and the Pieve of San Pietro a Ripoli, dating back to around 967 AD. Numerous churches and religious buildings preserve masterpieces by some of the greatest artists of the past, including the 14th-century Oratory of Santa Caterina delle Ruote, home to an exceptional cycle of beautifully preserved frescoes.

Trekking and Walking Routes Through Bagno a Ripoli

Several major walking routes pass through Bagno a Ripoli, including the Renaissance Ring (Anello del Rinascimento), the Francis Way (Cammino di Francesco), and Dante's Way (Cammino di Dante). See the map. Visitors can also explore the 43 km route created by the Bagno a Ripoli Trekking Group, divided into four scenic stages.

How to Reach Bagno a Ripoli

At present, Bagno a Ripoli can only be reached by bus. However, a new tram line directly connecting Florence with Bagno a Ripoli is currently under construction.

Download the All Around Florence Brochure

To learn more about the history and attractions of the area surrounding Florence, download the brochure available on the official tourism website of the Municipality of Florence and the Metropolitan City of Florence. Click here to download the brochure.