Have you ever been to Jerusalem?

Have you ever been to Jerusalem? If you haven't and would like to visit someday, you don't have to travel far... We have a smaller version of it here in Tuscany. The Tuscan Jerusalem, or Sacro Monte di San Vivaldo, is located just a few kilometers from the town of Montaione (Florence), in a vast wooded area. In the early 14th century, the Franciscan friar Vivaldo Stricchi from San Gimignano took refuge here to live a hermit's life, choosing a hollow chestnut tree as his home, where he eventually died.

Between 1500 and 1515, Brother Tommaso from Florence commissioned the construction of a complex of chapels and small temples on this site. The chapels were arranged in such a way (originally 25, but today you can admire only 18) that they precisely recreated (though on a smaller scale) Jerusalem from the late 15th century. This mystical treasure became a substitute pilgrimage site for those who couldn't afford the actual journey to the Holy Land.

Today, as in the past, you can admire the chapels in the classical style, with their extraordinary terracotta works from the famous sculptor Della Robbia's school, and enjoy moments of peace in this timeless place. Given its significant artistic and cultural interest, it is certainly worth a visit. During the summer, a number of cultural events and classical music concerts are held here.