Located in a strategic position, as the bastion of what, for a long time, was the only bridge on the Arno river after the city of Florence, Signa became world famous for the manufacture of straw, in particular for the production of hats.
But not only that, thanks to its ancient origins, every year Signa dresses up for a series of religious celebrations or historical re-enactments.
In the month of April, in particular on Easter Monday, Signa goes back to 1538, the year when they transferred the body of the Blessed Giovanna, a Franciscan nun who lived as a hermit, to whom several miracles are attributed; on this occasion a solemn procession goes through the old town centre, joined by a historical parade with more than 300 extras in 14th century costumes.
But folklore events in Signa reach their peak in September, with the medieval festival and the tower fire: this important re-enactment refers to the 1387 siege by the troops of Giangaleazzo Visconti, duke of Milan, which Signa withstood victoriously. Fireworks recall the fire in the Torre di Settentrione, while medieval-style shows and stagings in the streets take the village back in time to the 14th century.
