Pieve di San Cresci
A historic Tuscan church and family winery offering Chianti Classico amidst breathtaking countryside, though interior access is currently restricted.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Pieve di San Cresci
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Tuscan church and family winery offering Chianti Classico amidst breathtaking countryside, though interior access is currently restricted.
"A magical place frozen in time, welcomed by Sergio who made us chat over a good wine which was later bought."
Confirm Interior Access
Check current status before visiting as interior access is often restricted due to structural issues. :information_source:
Savor the Scenic Drive
The journey through Chianti is part of the magic; enjoy the views and consider stops along the way. :road:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Parish Church Exterior
Valcava
Admire the historic architecture of this ancient church, a testament to centuries of history and resilience.
Scenic Chianti Countryside
Surrounding Valcava
Soak in the breathtaking views of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves that define the iconic Chianti landscape.
Family-Run Winery Experience
Pieve di San Cresci Winery
Experience a warm welcome and taste exceptional Chianti Classico and organic olive oil from a family with deep roots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Access Before You Go
Embrace the Chianti Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Interior Access
Check current status before visiting as interior access is often restricted due to structural issues. :information_source:
Savor the Scenic Drive
The journey through Chianti is part of the magic; enjoy the views and consider stops along the way. :road:
Taste Local Wines
Experience a wine tasting at the Pieve di San Cresci winery for authentic Chianti Classico.
Drone Photography Allowed
Capture stunning aerial views of the church and landscape with drone footage.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Interior Access
Check current status before visiting as interior access is often restricted due to structural issues. :information_source:
Savor the Scenic Drive
The journey through Chianti is part of the magic; enjoy the views and consider stops along the way. :road:
Taste Local Wines
Experience a wine tasting at the Pieve di San Cresci winery for authentic Chianti Classico.
Drone Photography Allowed
Capture stunning aerial views of the church and landscape with drone footage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Pieve di San Cresci to be a magical place with a beautiful exterior and stunning surrounding countryside, enhanced by a welcoming winery experience. However, the current closure of the church's interior due to structural issues is a significant drawback for many.
"Entry not permitted due to structural problems, so the interior of the church was not seen. Situation as of 1.5.25"
Diego Ponzi
"A magical place frozen in time, welcomed by Sergio who made us chat over a good wine which was later bought"
Francesco monciatti
"What we could see was very beautiful. Unfortunately the interior is currently closed due to structural failure. It must be said, however, that the road that leads from Florence to the Pieve is splendid and the surrounding countryside is beautiful"
Silvia Persiani
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic route from Florence involves driving through the Chianti region. The drive itself is a highlight, offering beautiful vineyard and countryside views. Consider renting a car for flexibility. +1
Public transport options to Pieve di San Cresci are limited. Renting a car is highly recommended for easier access and to explore the surrounding Chianti area.
The road leading to Pieve di San Cresci is described as splendid and winding, offering beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside.
Yes, Pieve di San Gresci can be a wonderful stop on a day trip exploring the Chianti region from Florence. Many itineraries include it alongside other charming villages. +1
While specific details on dedicated parking are scarce, visitors generally find parking available near the church and winery, especially outside of peak tourist times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the exterior of Pieve di San Cresci and the surrounding grounds is generally free. However, the interior of the church is currently closed due to structural problems.
As the interior is closed, there are no set opening hours for the church itself. The winery may have specific tasting hours, which are best confirmed directly.
Unfortunately, the interior of Pieve di San Cresci is currently closed to visitors due to structural issues and risk of collapse.
Yes, the Pieve di San Cresci winery is operational and offers wine tastings and sales. It's a family-run business with a long history.
The grounds and exterior of Pieve di San Cresci are typically accessible without an entrance fee, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical presence and the surrounding landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially of the exterior and the beautiful surrounding landscape. Drone photography is also featured in some content.
The exterior of the ancient church, the winding road leading up to it, and the panoramic views of the Chianti hills offer excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, drone footage has been captured at Pieve di San Cresci, showcasing impressive aerial views of the church and its setting.
While no specific restrictions are widely mentioned, always be respectful of the site and any private property, such as the winery.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the historic architecture and the Tuscan landscape.
🍽️ 🍷 Food & Drink
Absolutely! Pieve di San Cresci is also a winery producing Chianti Classico and organic olive oil. They offer tastings and are known for their welcoming atmosphere.
They specialize in Chianti Classico, a renowned Tuscan red wine, and also produce organic olive oil.
While there are no dining facilities directly at the Pieve, the nearby town of Greve in Chianti offers several restaurants and trattorias.
Yes, visitors can purchase wine and olive oil directly from the Pieve di San Cresci winery.
Visitors often describe the winery experience as magical, with friendly hosts like Sergio who share good wine and conversation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options directly at the Pieve are limited. The winery experience might be more engaging for older children who can appreciate the process, but younger ones might find the drive and open spaces more appealing. 🚗 Road Trippers & Wine Enthusiasts
+1 The personal welcome and tasting experience are frequently praised, making it a highlight of many Tuscan itineraries. 📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 The use of drones is permitted and has resulted in impressive aerial footage, capturing the scale and beauty of the location. +1 The golden hour light in the late afternoon can further enhance the photographic appeal of the site. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance
It is believed to be the burial site of martyrs Cresci, Ezio, and Onione from the 3rd century. The church has undergone various restorations throughout the centuries, reflecting its enduring importance in the region. Its ancient stones and studio space have been described as bringing fragments into cohesion, offering a sense of timelessness. The church's historical significance is further highlighted by its mention in texts from the 10th century.
Despite its rich past, the interior is currently inaccessible due to structural concerns, a fact that visitors should be aware of. Beyond its religious and historical context, Pieve di San Cresci is also a working winery. The Ballini family has cultivated its vineyards for nearly two centuries, producing Chianti Classico and organic olive oil.
This dual identity as a historical site and a producer of local delicacies adds another layer to its unique appeal. The Pieve di San Cresci Winery
Situated on the Chianti hills overlooking Greve in Chianti, the vineyards benefit from an ideal location for producing high-quality wine and organic olive oil. The family's dedication to their craft is evident in the wines they produce, particularly their Chianti Classico, which has been praised by visitors. Visitors often highlight the warm and welcoming atmosphere at the winery. Sergio, a representative of the winery, is frequently mentioned for his hospitality, engaging visitors in conversations over wine.
Beyond wine tastings, the winery also offers its own organic olive oil. The combination of wine and olive oil production showcases the agricultural richness of the Chianti region.
Purchasing directly from the winery allows visitors to take a piece of this Tuscan experience home with them. 
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