
Chiesa dei Santi Jacopo e Filippo
A Romanesque church in Certaldo Alto, housing Boccaccio's tomb and stunning Della Robbia artworks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Chiesa dei Santi Jacopo e Filippo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Romanesque church in Certaldo Alto, housing Boccaccio's tomb and stunning Della Robbia artworks.
"A very pleasant and interesting church, both for Boccaccio's tomb and its artistic value."

Wear Comfortable Shoes
Certaldo Alto has cobblestone streets and inclines. :athletic_shoe: Explore with ease!
Combine with Boccaccio's House
Visit the nearby Casa Boccaccio for a deeper dive into the author's life. :book:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boccaccio's Tomb
Center of the nave
Pay respects at the final resting place of the renowned author, marked by a marble slab and bust.

Blessed Giulia Della Rena's Remains
Right wall
Discover the tomb of Certaldo's patron saint, a contemporary of Boccaccio, and admire the Della Robbia altarpiece.

Robbian Terracotta Tabernacles
Sides of the altar
Marvel at the exquisite 15th-century terracotta works by the Della Robbia workshop, showcasing intricate artistry.

Medieval Fresco
Left wall
View a 13th-century fresco attributed to Memmo di Filippuccio, depicting the Madonna and Child Enthroned.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Certaldo's Historic Heart
Embrace Certaldo's Medieval Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Certaldo Alto has cobblestone streets and inclines. :athletic_shoe: Explore with ease!
Combine with Boccaccio's House
Visit the nearby Casa Boccaccio for a deeper dive into the author's life. :book:
Check for Events
Ceremonies can affect access. Confirm hours before your visit. :calendar:
Appreciate the Artistry
Take time to admire the Della Robbia works and frescoes. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Certaldo Alto has cobblestone streets and inclines. :athletic_shoe: Explore with ease!
Combine with Boccaccio's House
Visit the nearby Casa Boccaccio for a deeper dive into the author's life. :book:
Check for Events
Ceremonies can affect access. Confirm hours before your visit. :calendar:
Appreciate the Artistry
Take time to admire the Della Robbia works and frescoes. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chiesa dei Santi Jacopo e Filippo for its historical significance, particularly as the burial site of Giovanni Boccaccio and the resting place of Blessed Giulia Della Rena. The beautiful Romanesque architecture and the presence of exquisite Della Robbia artworks are also highlighted as major draws. While small, the church is considered a very pleasant and interesting stop for those exploring the medieval charm of Certaldo Alto.
"Beautiful."
DAVID SNYDER
"Small church in Romanesque style where there is the tombstone of Boccaccio and the blessed Giulia.
On the walls there are also two terracotta tabernacles.
The book of Giulia da Certaldo is very moving."
Marina Parini
"Beautiful Romanesque church located between the House of Boccaccio and the Palazzo Pretorio.
It is also famous because Boccaccio is buried in this church. In the center of the single nave is his tomb, marked by a marble slab.
There is also a marble bust of Boccaccio placed above an epitaph.
Inside there are also the mortal remains of the blessed Giulia Della Rena, a contemporary of the writer and patron saint of Certaldo.
Adjacent to the church there is a cloister with the Augustinian convent complex.
It is a small church, very pleasant and interesting."
Giuseppe Marzulli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in Certaldo Alto, the medieval upper town. If arriving by car, park in the lower town and take the funicular or walk up the steep path. Public transport options include regional trains to Certaldo station, followed by a walk or bus to the historic center. :train: :bus:
Certaldo Alto is a pedestrian-friendly medieval village. While there are some inclines and cobblestone streets, the funicular offers an easy ascent from the lower town. :walking:
Wander through the narrow alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and soak in the medieval atmosphere. The Chiesa dei Santi Jacopo e Filippo, Boccaccio's House, and the Palazzo Pretorio are key landmarks. :map:
Yes, there are parking lots available in the lower town of Certaldo. From there, you can use the funicular to reach Certaldo Alto, which is where the church is located. :car:
Certaldo is well-connected by regional trains, making it accessible from Florence and Siena. Once at the Certaldo train station, you can walk or take a local bus to the historic center. :train: :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is generally free, allowing visitors to see Boccaccio's tomb and the Blessed Giulia's remains. However, access to the adjacent Museo di Arte Sacra may require a ticket. :ticket:
Opening hours can vary, especially during religious services or special events. It's advisable to check with local tourist information or the Museo di Arte Sacra for the most up-to-date times. :clock:
Typically, there is no admission fee to enter the Chiesa dei Santi Jacopo e Filippo. Donations are often appreciated to help with its upkeep. :euro:
Visitors are welcome to attend mass, but it's respectful to remain quiet and observe the service. Some areas might be restricted during religious ceremonies. :pray:
While the church is free, consider purchasing a combined ticket if you plan to visit the Museo di Arte Sacra and Boccaccio's House for a comprehensive experience. :ticket:
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
This Romanesque church is historically significant as the burial place of Giovanni Boccaccio and houses the tomb of Blessed Giulia Della Rena. It also features notable artworks, including Della Robbia tabernacles. :scroll:
Inside, you'll find Boccaccio's cenotaph with a bust by Rustici, his tombstone, two beautiful Robbian terracotta tabernacles, and a 13th-century fresco on the left wall. :painting:
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful. Avoid flash photography, especially near artworks. :camerawithflash:
The church is primarily built in the Romanesque style, characterized by its brick construction, round arches, and a single nave. It has undergone restorations over the centuries. :building_construction:
While the church itself may not have a gift shop, the adjacent Museo di Arte Sacra or nearby shops in Certaldo Alto might offer souvenirs. Restrooms are usually available in the museum or public areas. :shopping_cart:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Certaldo Alto offers several charming trattorias and cafes where you can enjoy Tuscan cuisine. Look for places serving local specialties like 'tagliatelle al ragù' or 'cinghiale' (wild boar). :forkandknife:
Don't miss trying 'cavallucci' (a type of biscotti), 'schiacciata' (Tuscan flatbread), and dishes featuring local olive oil and wine. :wine_glass:
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, such as pasta with vegetable sauces or salads. Vegan options might be more limited but can often be accommodated with advance notice. :leafy_green:
Absolutely! You'll find several cafes in Certaldo Alto perfect for a morning espresso, a midday gelato, or a light snack while taking in the views. :coffee:
Prices can vary, but you can find a range of dining options from casual trattorias to more formal restaurants. Eating at local spots away from the main tourist path can offer better value. :moneywithwings:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the facade of the church, the interior with Boccaccio's tomb, the Della Robbia tabernacles, and the charming cobblestone streets of Certaldo Alto. :camera:
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the church's details and the medieval ambiance of Certaldo Alto. Golden hour can be magical. :sunrise: :sunset:
Generally, photography is allowed inside the church, but avoid using flash. Be mindful of other visitors and any ongoing services. :no_flash:
A versatile zoom lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the architecture and details of the artworks. A prime lens (e.g., 50mm) can be great for low-light interiors. :camera_lens:
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic town centers and near religious sites due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local drone laws before flying. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on making the exploration a treasure hunt through the medieval streets. Point out interesting architectural details, look for hidden symbols, and imagine life centuries ago. The open spaces in Certaldo Alto allow for some freedom of movement. Ensure children are supervised closely on the cobblestone paths and near any inclines. The overall experience is more about the atmosphere and history than specific child-centric attractions within the church itself.
📚 Literature and History Buffs
Beyond the church, delve deeper by visiting the Casa Boccaccio, which offers insights into his life and works. Exploring Certaldo Alto itself, a town that has retained much of its medieval character, provides a vivid backdrop to understanding the era in which Boccaccio lived and wrote. The Palazzo Pretorio also offers historical context for the region.
🎨 Art and Architecture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the 13th-century fresco attributed to Memmo di Filippuccio, a significant piece of medieval painting. The overall aesthetic of the church, combined with its historical significance and the surrounding medieval village of Certaldo Alto, makes for a rich visual and cultural experience. Take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship and the historical context of each artistic element.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Giovanni Boccaccio
Beyond his tomb, the church itself is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, constructed primarily of brick with sandstone block bases. The interior, after a 1960s restoration, presents a solemn hall with a terracotta curtain wall and a striking wooden truss ceiling. The presence of Boccaccio here is deeply intertwined with the history of Certaldo, his birthplace, making the church a pilgrimage site for literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The atmosphere is often described as peaceful and contemplative, offering a moment of reflection on his contributions to literature.
Artistic Treasures: Della Robbia and Frescoes
Adding to the church's artistic richness is a 13th-century fresco on the left wall, attributed to Memmo di Filippuccio. This fresco depicts the Madonna and Child Enthroned between Saints James and Peter, with a notable hierarchical division typical of medieval art. Although parts of it were altered over time, a restoration returned it to its original state. The church also houses the tomb of Blessed Giulia Della Rena, a contemporary of Boccaccio and patron saint of Certaldo, accompanied by a glazed terracotta altarpiece from the Della Robbia workshop.
Exploring Certaldo Alto: A Medieval Gem
Visitors are encouraged to wander through the winding alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and soak in the authentic Tuscan atmosphere. The funicular provides an easy and scenic way to ascend from the lower town, offering panoramic views as you climb. Once in Certaldo Alto, comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the uneven terrain. The entire area exudes a sense of history, making it a delightful place to explore at a leisurely pace, perhaps stopping for a coffee or a gelato at one of the local cafes.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit