Museo delle Terre Nuove: a journey through the origins of Medieval Tuscany

The Museum in the Heart of San Giovanni Valdarno

An interactive experience inside the historic Palazzo d'Arnolfo, where medieval architecture, technology, and stories from the past come to life for visitors of all ages.

Discover the fascinating history of the “Terre Nuove” in the heart of San Giovanni Valdarno

Discover the fascinating history of the “Terre Nuove” in the heart of San Giovanni Valdarno

In the 14th century, the Florentine Republic decided to establish new urban centers in the Valdarno region: thus the Terre Nuove were born, including San Giovanni Valdarno, designed according to tradition by the famous architect Arnolfo di Cambio.

Today, inside the evocative Palazzo d’Arnolfo, the Museo delle Terre Nuove guides you on a journey to discover how these cutting-edge medieval cities were founded and what life was like there.

Through a modern, multimedia museum experience—rich in scale models, sound installations, videos, and interactive stations—you can immerse yourself in everyday life during the Middle Ages, understand the ingenuity of Florentine urban planning, and admire the splendid frescoes that decorate the palace.

Don’t miss the exquisite “tondi” frescoes by Giovanni da San Giovanni, on loan from the Uffizi Galleries.

Why visit the “Terre Nuove” Museum?

An interactive journey through time: suitable both for history enthusiasts and for anyone looking for a dynamic and engaging cultural experience that is anything but boring.

Family-friendly format: the museum offers dedicated tours and educational activities designed to engage even the youngest visitors, available in both Italian and English.

Breathtaking architecture: the museum is housed in one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, featuring its famous noble coats of arms on the façade and panoramic views from the historic town centre.

Just a stone’s throw away: located in the heart of San Giovanni Valdarno, it is easily accessible within just a few minutes.

Useful Information

• Location: Palazzo d’Arnolfo – Piazza Cavour, San Giovanni Valdarno (AR).

• Opening hours:
  Monday: closed
  Tuesday to Friday: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
  Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm | 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

• Tickets:
  €5.00 full-price admission
  €3.00 reduced admission: groups of more than 15 people, visitors aged 18–25, visitors over 65, and holders of the Carta Mutuasalus.
  Free admission: residents of the Municipality of San Giovanni Valdarno and visitors under 18.
  + €3.00 for guided tours and art workshops.

• Guided tours and art workshops: available in Italian and English on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 am and 11:00 am, and on Saturdays at 4:00 pm and 5:30 pm. Advance booking is required at least two days in advance.

• Who is it suitable for? Families, couples, groups, and individual travellers