San Giovanni Valdarno is a small town located in the heart of the Upper Valdarno, in the province of Arezzo. Founded in the 13th century by the Republic of Florence, it still preserves today the urban layout typical of the ‘new lands,’ with a regular structure and a lively central square. From an artistic point of view, San Giovanni Valdarno is deeply connected to the figure of Masaccio, one of the fathers of the Renaissance, who was born here.

From an artistic point of view, San Giovanni Valdarno is deeply connected to the figure of Masaccio, one of the fathers of the Renaissance, who was born here.

Among the most important places stands out the Museo delle Terre Nuove, housed in the Palazzo d’Arnolfo. Here one can delve into the very history of the birth of these planned cities, gaining a better understanding of the historical and cultural context in which San Giovanni Valdarno developed.

The most fascinating aspect, however, emerges upon entering the Museum of the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This museum houses important works of sacred art, including the famous Annunciation by Beato Angelico. Here, one can fully experience the atmosphere of the Tuscan Renaissance, with paintings that reflect the delicacy, spirituality, and perspectival exploration typical of the era.

San Giovanni Valdarno is also the hometown of Masaccio, one of the great innovators of Renaissance painting. The Casa Masaccio – Centre for Contemporary Art is dedicated to him, and today it is not just a museum, but a dynamic space devoted to contemporary art. Here temporary exhibitions and experimental projects are held, creating an interesting dialogue between past and present.

In addition, the historic center features medieval and Renaissance buildings that tell the rich history of the city. Alongside these more strictly artistic institutions, there is also the Glass Museum (MUVEVA), which tells a different part of the local history, linked to industrial and artisanal production. Although it is not an art museum in the traditional sense, it helps to complete the cultural picture of the city.

The surrounding area is characterized by gentle hills, vineyards, and olive groves, which produce excellences such as extra virgin olive oil and wine. Not far away are the suggestive Balze del Valdarno, unique rock formations that also inspired Leonardo da Vinci.

From an economic point of view, the area has a very strong agricultural tradition, alongside industrial and commercial activities that developed mainly in the twentieth century. Alongside agriculture, there are small and medium-sized enterprises in the fashion, woodworking, and mechanical sectors. Local craftsmanship keeps traditional techniques alive, such as leatherworking, ceramics, textiles, and glass, often linked to Tuscan culture. These activities help preserve the identity of the territory, combining tradition and innovation in a context rich in history, art, and landscape.