Polcanto, situated in the San Lorenzo town area, the main centre of Mugello, 8 kilometres from Fiesole and 16 kilometres from Florence, in the green hills of Tuscany, in the full relax no crowded tourist area. Borgo S. Lorenzo is situated on the left bank of the River Sieve, at 193 m above sea level, and covers 146.15km2. The current population is 16,000 inhabitants. Thanks to its geographical position and concomitant economic importance, it is the principal town of the Mugello valley. The town has ruins of 14th century fortifications, including the famous Clock Tower.

Main places to visit

Pieve di S. Lorenzo

Parish church built in the 10th century. The church is said to be one of the oldest Romanesque examples still extant, with its three naves divided by columns to the left and pillars to the right. The structure of the roofs of the naves is also rather unusual, with the western nave being held aloft by beams and trusses, while the eastern nave is vaulted. Inside, the church has some memorable works of art and frescoes, including the Black Virgin, attributed to Giotto and dating from 1290.

Palazzo Pretorio

Built in the 13th century, this ex-council headquarters and local prison was completely destroyed by the 1919 earthquake before being rebuilt in 1935. Today, the building is used as public library. The impressive fasade is adorned with the coats-of-arms of the various mayors that the town has had over the years.

Museo Casa d’Erci

This is museum that features a permanent exhibition of peasant life in the area during the last century. Everything, from clothes to cooking utensils, documents and photographs, has been carefully set up evoke the feeling of travelling back in time.

Monastero di S. Caterina

This monastery dates from the 15th century, and located close to the S. Lorenzo parish church.

Plocanto in Tuscany, Italy It is ideal base for visiting the artistic cities of Tuscany and relaxing in the tranquillity of the Florentine hills.

For more information visit

• Comune Borgo San Lorenzo