The City Wall is a fascinating set of ramparts with a history stretching back as far as the 2nd century B.C. Today’s walls were built during the Renaissance era of the 16th century, with 11 bastions dividing the long circuit. Admire the varying architectural designs of these impressive fortresses and gates.
Appreciate the amount of greenery flanking the walls, which were never used in wars. Outside the ramparts lie verdant fields full of blossoming plants and trees, separating the historic center from the outskirts. Embark on a guided bicycle ride around the walls with a tour operator. Cycle the entire circuit in about 25 minutes.
Snap photos of these impressive walls, which are lined by trees. Walk along the pedestrian road atop the ramparts. Spot some of the most recognizable attractions within the walled loop, including the San Martino Church, the Torre delle Ore and the Real Collegio, once a convent. Enjoy a picnic in the intriguing space of the surroundings fields.
Pass through the structures of San Paolino, San Martino and Santa Croce among the other eight bastions and notice the architectural differences in each of them. See gates such as the Santa Maria, the San Donato and the San Pietro. You can also dine and drink in the bars and restaurants that today occupy some of these historic structures.
Look closely to spot vestiges of the old Roman walls. The current incarnation is the fourth version of the walls to be built over the centuries in this historic town. See the ramparts at night, when bright lights illuminate their gates, bastions and trees.
The City Wall forms a 3-mile (5-kilometer) loop around the central part of the city. From above, the walls present an oblong shape of red tiled roofs surrounded by green fields. Visit some of the historic center’s most notable sights, such as the Torre Guinigi, Piazza Napoleone and the San Frediano Basilica.