The Medici Fortress is located on the top of San Donato hill in the north-east area of the city. From this point, at about 300 meters high, you can enjoy a wonderful view of Pratomagno and the Arno valley.

The Fortress is a majestic stone building with a peculiar five point star shape system. Today it is a public park loved by the “Aretini” where archeological remains dated back to the Middle Age have been found.

The current structure was built by Medici following the local population riots in order to obtain autonomy and more freedom. The powerful Florentine family appointed the architect Antonio da Sangallo to plan an impenetrable fortress.

The works started in 1538 and they finished in 1560. In order to build an impenetrable fortress, the five bastions had been built following different proportions as a whole with the hill. According to the ground level, the bastions were bigger or smaller, higher or shorter. The first restoration works were necessary in 1868 after the French Army tried to demolish the fortress with mines.

Large gashes caused by mine explosions are still visible on the west side. Today, it is a meeting point for “Aretini” and tourists from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view.