Sesto Fiorentino: the town of porcelain masterpieces

All Around Florence! Sesto Fiorentino, nestled in the shadow of Monte Morello, is a territory with natural landscapes of extraordinary beauty and significance, and a tradition of craftsmanship of the highest level.

What to See in Sesto Fiorentino

Sesto Fiorentino boasts Etruscan origins, which have left their mark through numerous monuments across the area. Notable among these is the Tomba della Montagnola, a tholos (beehive) tomb built almost entirely from large blocks of alberese limestone, dating back to the second half of the 7th century BC.Although the name, which derives from *ad sextum lapidem* (the sixth milestone from Florence), is clearly of Roman origin.

The city stretches across a wide plain between Florence and Prato. To the north, it is dominated by Monte Morello, whose peaks reach over 900 meters. These mountains are a favorite destination for hikers and cyclists, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Florence.

Of utmost importance in Sesto is the artisanal tradition of porcelain and artistic ceramics. It was in this town that Carlo Ginori founded his famous hard porcelain factory in 1737, displaying his sculptural products in a dedicated gallery. Today, that space is home to the Biblioteca Civica Ragionieri (Civic Accountants' Library), while the Ginori Museum (a corporate museum) is undergoing restoration and is awaiting reopening.
The Ginori Museum's valuable archive is temporarily stored at the State Archives of Florence and can be consulted by appointment. Meanwhile, the Sesto Ceramics Archive—located within the Center for the Promotion and Professional Training of the Municipality of Sesto Fiorentino—is the main multifunctional space and documentation center dedicated to the history and innovation of ceramics in the Florence area.

To the south, the territory is bordered by the Parco della Piana, a sanctuary for birdwatching enthusiasts. Here, visitors can observe native species and migratory birds, including the stunning pink flamingos during the month of March. 

Trekking and Trails Around Sesto Fiorentino

The municipalities at the foot of Monte Morello are all wonderful destinations for trails and paths that traverse history and scenic landscapes. Key routes include:

• The Path of the Gods (Via degli Dei)
• The Renaissance Ring (Anello del Rinascimento)
• The Way of St. James (Cammino di San Jacopo)

Check the map for all the walking trails in the Florentine area.

How to Reach Sesto Fiorentino

The best way to reach Sesto Fiorentino is by regional train departing from the Florence Santa Maria Novella station.

Download the "All Around Florence" Brochure

To learn more about the history of the Florentine surroundings, download the official brochure from the City of Florence and Metropolitan City tourism website: Click here to download the brochure.