Sant'Ansano: Pieve, art and the Cammino di Santo Sano

For a trip to Sant'Ansano, there are two distinct themes to explore: sacred art and architectural history at the Pieve di San Giovanni Battista in Sant’Ansano in Greti, and the Cammino di Santo Sano, a trekking route between Vinci and Sant’Ansano. The Pieve brings together evidence from several centuries; the route follows old paths through typical Tuscan landscapes. When planning your trip, you can consider whether you are more interested in church art and historic architectural styles, or whether the trekking route is the main reason for your visit.

Art and history of the Pieve

The Pieve di San Giovanni Battista is first mentioned in a document issued by Emperor Otto III in 998. This early written reference marks a historical starting point, although the church's artworks date from later centuries. The tempera altarpiece from the Giottesque school dates to the 14th century and depicts Sant’Ansano and angels. Another work takes a different narrative approach: the 1625 painting by Sienese painter Rutilio Manetti depicts Pope Alexander I being freed from prison by an angel. These works therefore bring different periods and subjects together: Sant’Ansano with angels in one, and the pope's liberation in the other. The dates refer to different things: 998 to the Pieve's first mention in a document, and 1625 to Manetti's painting.

The Pieve was able to acquire a finger relic of Sant'Ansano. Since 1680, it has kept the relics of San Bonifacio in an urn in the right aisle. The altarpiece and the finger relic relate Sant’Ansano to the Pieve in different ways: once as a figure in a painting, and once as a relic.

Architecture and trekking route

The exterior of Sant’Ansano in Greti also offers a way to explore its earlier architectural history. The long side wall is visible from outside, making it possible to imagine the former Romanesque church. The outer wall is made of ashlar blocks of grey sandstone. These provide two different clues: the wall reveals the material and stonework, while the long side helps convey the shape of the former Romanesque building. In the nave, broad arches rest on capitals decorated with sculptural reliefs. These are classified as 12th-century sculptural elements, combining a structural function with art-historical design.

The Cammino di Santo Sano offers a different focus. The trekking route connects Vinci and Sant’Ansano along old paths and passes through typical Tuscan landscapes. While the Pieve represents the history of church art and architecture through its paintings, architectural elements and relics, the Cammino focuses on the connection between two places and the route itself. The 2026 edition also includes a re-enactment of the historic rite of the city of Vinci (1564–2026); future editions may differ.

Discover more destinations: Greve In Chianti, Reggello, Firenzuola, Montespertoli, Castelfiorentino, Polvereto, Cerreto Guidi, Le Vedute.

For the broader travel overview: Florence.