Porte Sante Cemetery
A serene hilltop cemetery offering breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and showcasing stunning mausoleum architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Porte Sante Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene hilltop cemetery offering breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and showcasing stunning mausoleum architecture.
"People are dead very beautifully here. White marble everywhere. Some of the tombstones are definitely a piece of art."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is on a hill; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its grounds and enjoying the views. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic views of Florence are spectacular, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Florence Views
Hilltop overlooking Florence
Breathtaking vistas of Florence's iconic skyline, offering unparalleled photo opportunities.
Artistic Mausoleums
Throughout the cemetery
Miniature architectural marvels resembling classical mansions and Byzantine churches, showcasing intricate artistry.
Author of Pinocchio's Tomb
Specific section of the cemetery
Visit the final resting place of Carlo Collodi, the beloved author of 'The Adventures of Pinocchio'.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Respectful Exploration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is on a hill; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its grounds and enjoying the views. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic views of Florence are spectacular, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Be Respectful
This is a place of rest. Keep noise levels down and be mindful of others seeking peace. :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore the Art
Don't just focus on the views; admire the unique mausoleum architecture and detailed sculptures. :statueofliberty:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is on a hill; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring its grounds and enjoying the views. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The panoramic views of Florence are spectacular, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Be Respectful
This is a place of rest. Keep noise levels down and be mindful of others seeking peace. :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore the Art
Don't just focus on the views; admire the unique mausoleum architecture and detailed sculptures. :statueofliberty:
🐈 Friendly Feline Resident
Keep an eye out for the cemetery's resident cat, often found with its own little house and offerings. :cat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Porte Sante Cemetery for its breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and its remarkably artistic mausoleums, often described as miniature architectural wonders. The peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to visit Carlo Collodi's tomb are also frequently highlighted. Some find the walk up to be a bit strenuous, and while generally free, it's a place that demands respectful exploration.
"A small cemetery behind the Basilica di San Miniato offering panoramic views of Florence from its hilltop site.
It has some very impressive mausoleums that are like miniature classical mansions or Byzantine churches.
The majority are small graves or cremation urn compartments but there is good quality statuary amongst them."
herm dig
"A true necropolis! On a beautiful day it is a lovely hike from old Florence and it rises with spectacular views of the city from the heights. Most of the famous scenes of Florence are taken from here. The cemetery itself is impressive, like a miniature city with blocks of buildings. The author of Pinocchio is buried there. This is a definite must do weather permitting, which is the norm."
Phae Drus
"People are dead very beautifully here. White marble everywhere. Some of the tombstones are definitely a piece of art. When I was there it was quite and peaceful.
Fun fact: I stumbled upon a cat that seems to live there. Had its own little house with food and drink."
S. F.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is located atop a hill behind the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte. You can hike up from Florence, which offers beautiful views along the way. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to get closer to the Basilica and then walk to the cemetery. The walk from the city center can be steep but rewarding.
Parking can be limited near the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte, especially during peak tourist season. It's often recommended to use public transport or walk if possible. If driving, research parking options in advance.
Yes, walking is a popular option for visitors who enjoy scenic routes. The climb offers increasingly impressive views of Florence as you ascend. Be prepared for a moderate uphill walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to Porte Sante Cemetery is free. It's a public space for remembrance and offers stunning views without an admission fee.
The cemetery typically follows the opening hours of the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte, which are usually from morning until early evening. It's advisable to check the specific hours closer to your visit.
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Porte Sante Cemetery. You can explore its grounds and admire the architecture and views freely.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire impressive mausoleums that resemble miniature classical mansions and Byzantine churches, intricate sculptures, and the final resting place of Carlo Collodi, author of Pinocchio. The panoramic views of Florence are a major highlight.
Absolutely! The cemetery offers incredible photographic opportunities, from the detailed mausoleum art to the sweeping views of Florence. The golden hour light is particularly beautiful for capturing stunning shots. 
A visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the mausoleums, enjoying the views, and taking photos. It's a peaceful place to wander and reflect.
Basic facilities like restrooms might be available near the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte. It's recommended to bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are no extensive services within the cemetery itself.
The cemetery is located on a hilltop, and while some paths are paved, the terrain can be uneven. Accessing the higher points might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. The walk up from Florence is also a consideration.
📸 camera_with_flash Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, offer the most beautiful light for photography. The soft light enhances the details of the mausoleums and bathes the city views in a warm glow.
Photography enthusiasts often focus on the unique architectural details of the mausoleums, the intricate sculptures, and the breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. Gothic and moody shots are also popular.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to be discreet and respectful, especially when photographing specific graves or mausoleums. Professional or commercial photography might require permits.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views, while a prime lens can be useful for detailed shots of sculptures and mausoleum architecture. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions, but be mindful of space and other visitors.
While personal flash photography is generally permitted, it's best to use it sparingly and avoid direct flashes on mausoleums or sculptures, as it can be disruptive and potentially damaging over time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to set expectations beforehand: this is a place of rest, so respectful behavior is paramount. Keep voices low and explain the significance of the site. The walk up can be a good way to burn energy, but ensure children are wearing comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Consider it a unique educational experience that combines art, history, and stunning scenery.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The sweeping panoramic views of Florence are best captured with a wide-angle lens, especially during the golden hour for dramatic lighting.Experiment with different perspectives – from grand vistas to the subtle beauty of weathered marble and statuary. The cemetery's gothic and southern gothic aesthetic also lends itself to moody and atmospheric photography.
+1 Remember to be mindful of other visitors and the solemn nature of the site when setting up shots.🚶♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
It's a place where you can wander at your own pace, absorbing the serene environment and the artistic expressions of remembrance. The presence of the cemetery's resident cat can also add a charming, unexpected element to a solo exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Legacies
Visitors are struck by the mausoleums, which are often described as miniature classical mansions or even small Byzantine churches, showcasing a remarkable level of detail and craftsmanship. These structures are not just graves but elaborate works of art, offering a unique glimpse into the lives and legacies of those interred within.The cemetery is a veritable necropolis, a city of the dead, with blocks of buildings that create a striking visual landscape. Beyond the grand mausoleums, you'll find smaller graves and cremation urn compartments, many adorned with high-quality statuary. The white marble used extensively throughout the cemetery contributes to its serene and elegant atmosphere. It's a place where people are 'dead very beautifully,' as one visitor noted, with tombstones that are truly pieces of art.
Among the notable figures buried here is Carlo Collodi, the author of the beloved children's book 'The Adventures of Pinocchio.' His tomb adds a layer of literary significance to the cemetery's already rich historical and artistic tapestry. Exploring Porte Sante is an opportunity to appreciate a unique blend of art, history, and serene contemplation, all set against the backdrop of Florence's iconic skyline.
The Breathtaking Views of Florence
Many of the iconic, sweeping views of Florence that you see in photographs are taken from this very location.
This combination of solemn beauty and stunning natural scenery makes Porte Sante Cemetery a unique destination. It's a place where one can find peace and reflection while simultaneously being awestruck by the grandeur of Florence. The experience is both introspective and expansive, offering a profound connection to the history and beauty of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit