Located about 20 kilometers from Paluffo, a vacation villa with swimming pool in Chianti, Gambassi Terme is a charming town of ancient origins known as a thermal paradise. The area is characterized by the presence of multiple springs, the most famous of which is the one that produces Acqua Salsa di Pillo, used in the local thermal baths since the 1800s. Rich in minerals such as chloride, bicarbonate, sulfate, magnesium and free carbonic acid, it is suitable for treating pathologies affecting the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. The water, which springs at a temperature of 15°C, is transported through a 3.8-kilometer pipeline to the thermal establishment. The Gambassi Thermal Baths, built between 1978-1980, are located in the fascinating Benestare Park, a natural area immersed in greenery, dotted with springs, pools and water outcrops that can be freely visited. At the establishment, it’s possible to undergo a wide range of thermal, therapeutic (hydroponic therapies, inhalation therapies and nasal showers) and aesthetic services.

The territory of Gambassi Terme has been a place of passage since time immemorial, documented since the Etruscan era but particularly relevant in the Early Middle Ages, with the flow of pilgrims who traveled the Via Francigena, the ancient religious pilgrimage route that led from northern Europe to the holy cities of Christianity: Rome and Jerusalem. Still today, Gambassi Terme is a stop on the Via Francigena. Every year thousands of pilgrims arrive, along the stretch connecting San Miniato to Gambassi, San Gimignano, and Siena.

Particularly striking is its historic center. Built on the remains of an ancient castle, it represents the best one can expect from the Florentine countryside. Small, characteristic and immersed in an enchanting landscape, it is characterized by narrow and steep streets flanked by stone and brick buildings. Walking through its medieval alleys, it’s not difficult to discover and reach hidden corners rich in color and atmosphere.

Gambassi Terme stands out as a significant cultural and artistic center, enhanced by the presence of notable religious buildings. Among these is the Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Chianni, which represents one of the finest examples of late Romanesque architecture in Tuscany. Recorded at the end of the 10th century by Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury as the twentieth stop on his journey along the Via Francigena, in its current form it dates back to the 12th century.

Gambassi was and is famous since the 13th century for glassmaking and particularly for the production of glasses, called “gambasini,” by renowned master glassmakers. The testimonies of this art are preserved at the permanent Glass Exhibition. Set up in the Municipal Library, it displays about 3,000 archaeological finds, both local and Italian, dating from the period between the 13th and 16th centuries.

During the course of the year, Gambassi Terme hosts numerous cultural and food and wine events, among which the Palio delle Contrade stands out. Scheduled between late August and early September, it involves the four districts of the town (Membrino, i’Porcello, La Pieve and Belvedere), which compete in various skill tests. During the palio week, the historic center is also animated by shows, parades, concerts and stands where you can taste typical local products.