For lovers of religious art and history, the Museo di Arte Sacra is an absolute must-see. This museum, located in the historic center of Certaldo Alto, offers an impressive collection of liturgical objects, religious paintings, and sculptures that reflect the rich spiritual history of the region. Visitors can not only admire remarkable artworks, but also experience a deeper connection with the spiritual and cultural traditions of Tuscany. In this article, you’ll discover why the Museo di Arte Sacra deserves a place on your Certaldo itinerary.
What would you like to know about the Museo di Arte Sacra?
What was the Vicariate of Certaldo?
In 1415, Certaldo became the seat of the Vicariate of the Florentine Republic. A Vicar served as a representative official, and the territory they governed was known as a Vicariate—a fairly large area, in this case. Because of Certaldo’s important administrative role, the town experienced cultural and financial prosperity. When the Vicariate came to an end around 1785, Certaldo’s prominence faded. Still, several artistic treasures from this era have been preserved, and you can admire them today in the Museo di Arte Sacra.
Source: Wikipedia, public domain
The Church and the Augustinian Monastery
The Augustinian monastery is home to the Church of Santi Jacopo e Filippo, located on the central square. The church is free to visit and houses, among other things, the tomb of Giovanni Boccaccio and the body of the Blessed Giulia. The square in front of the church was likely once a cemetery, later transformed into a piazza in the 19th century.
The Museo di Arte Sacra is housed in the former Augustinian monastery, which is believed to date back to the 12th century. The monastery has two floors and is unique for its irregular, trapezoid layout.
Reading tip! Want to learn more about Certaldo’s charming little church? Read Chiesa dei Santi Jacopo e Filippo – Discover Boccaccio’s Tomb.
What can you see in the Museo di Arte Sacra?
One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of medieval and Renaissance paintings. Works by local artists from the 14th and 15th centuries illustrate the development of Tuscan art and the influence of religion on daily life. Visitors can admire iconic depictions of saints and biblical scenes, often painted with rich colors and refined details.
The museum also features an impressive selection of wooden sculptures and altarpieces. These artworks—mostly from the 15th and 16th centuries—showcase the craftsmanship of local artisans. Each sculpture is carefully preserved and offers insight into the religious devotion and aesthetics of the period.
Another important part of the collection consists of liturgical objects such as chalices, candlesticks, and reliquaries. These items were used during church ceremonies and processions and often feature exquisite engravings, precious metals, and enamelwork. They beautifully illustrate how deeply art and religion were intertwined in the Middle Ages.
Visiting the Museo di Arte Sacra?
The Museo di Arte Sacra is part of a group of museums accessible with a combination ticket — highly recommended! With this ticket, you can also visit Casa Boccaccio and Palazzo Pretorio. Expect to spend about an hour exploring the Museo di Arte Sacra. And don’t forget to visit the nearby church afterward!
Opening hours? Summer season (April–October): 10:00–13:00 and 14:30–19:00. Other months: 10:00–13:00 and 14:30–16:30/17:30. Winter: Closed on Tuesdays
Reading tip! Curious what else you can see and do in and around Certaldo? Check out 11 Highlights In and Around Certaldo in Tuscany.
Source: Wikipedia
Plan your trip to Certaldo & Italy
Accommodation?
Certaldo is a good base for exploring the province of Tuscany
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Tickets & Tours?
In Certaldo Alto you will find a number of nice museums that are really worth visiting. With a combi-ticket for these museums, a nice lunch and an evening dinner, you can easily spend a whole day. Or book other fun activities in Tuscany!
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Flight tickets to Italy?
To Tuscany, it is best to fly to Florence or Pisa. Other options are Milan and Rome and then by train to Florence
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Rent a car?
The best way to explore Tuscany is by car!
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Public transport?
Are you going to explore Tuscany by public transportation? By train you can easily get to cities such as Florence, Lucca, Pisa or Siena.
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If you have any tips, ideas, or comments about this article on the Museo di Arte Sacra, feel free to leave a message below!
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