Just under 18 miles (30 kilometers) in length and with a modest elevation gain, Stage 29 starts in Altopascio and runs along an original stone-paved road that has welcomed travelers, pilgrims and merchants for centuries. The route alternates between unpaved and sealed sections, crossing the natural area of the Cerbaie, rich in vegetation, leading to Ponte a Cappiano, where this ancient Medici bridge—once fortified—now houses a hostel. Past this area, you cross the Padule di Fucecchio, a vast reclaimed marshland. Next, the walk continues to Fucecchio and the Arno embankment, until reaching San Miniato, an ancient stop for Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury. Famous for its truffles and history, this place is represented by the Rocca di Federico II and the Torre di Matilde. Rest stops along the route are located in Chimenti, Galleno, Ponte a Cappiano and Fucecchio.

One of the largest wetlands in Europe, the Padule di Fucecchio are home to an ecosystem rich in biodiversity that once covered much of the Florentine plain. After centuries of reclamation, this marshland is now a protected area that provides refuge for numerous species of migratory birds and flora typical of marshy environments. The route through the marshland allows visitors to be immersed in the wilderness, among reeds, bodies of water and paths that evoke the past of this area, once a crossroads of trade and agriculture. Today, thanks to conservation projects, the marsh is a great place for birdwatching, with enchanting views to be discovered along the way.

Located in the majestic Palazzo Corsini, the Museum of Fucecchio offers a fascinating journey through the history of an area from Cerbaie to the lower Valdinievole and Valdarno, with artifacts that tell the story of the area’s evolution from the Paleolithic to the contemporary age. The archaeological collection includes materials from various historical periods including the Lower Paleolithic through excavations and searches in the area. The artistic-historical section exhibits significant works, such as the “Madonna and Child with Saints” by the Maestro di Fucecchio, and paintings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, including Giovan Domenico Ferretti’s “Saint Aloysius Gonzaga in Glory.” In addition, the museum houses the Adolfo Lensi Ornithological Collection, with some 300 bird specimens, many typical of the Padule di Fucecchio. This heritage, combining art, archeology and nature, offers a valuable cue from a cultural point of view.

The undisputed symbol of San Miniato is the Rocca di Federico II, a tower built around 1220 at the behest of the Suevian emperor. In addition to being an important imperial residence, the fortress is also famous for being home to Pier delle Vigne, Frederick II’s secretary, whose tragic story is recounted by Dante in the Divine Comedy. Destroyed during World War II, the fortress was faithfully reconstructed with much care in 1956, restoring its former glory. Its prime location offers splendid panoramic views of the town of San Miniato and the surrounding countryside. On clear days, it is possible to spy Florence, Volterra and Pistoia in the distance through a telescope.

Built in the 12ᵗʰ century, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta e San Genesio is the seat of the bishop of San Miniato. Originally dedicated to Saint Mary, it acquired the title of San Genesio in 1248 after the destruction of the Lombard village. Its façade, adorned with Pisan ceramic basins, is embellished with 16ᵗʰ-century portals. In the 15ᵗʰ century, it was expanded with the Tower of Matilde, linked to the legend of Matilda of Tuscany. The interior, renovated in the 19ᵗʰ century, mixes neo-Renaissance and Baroque elements, with Ionic columns and gilded coffered ceilings. During World War II, the church was severely damaged in a bombing raid, resulting in the deaths of 55 people, an incident that inspired the film The Night of the Shooting Stars. The Cathedral remains an important place of worship and spiritual destination for pilgrims traveling the Via Francigena.

The white truffle of San Miniato, the Tuber Magnatum Pico, is a gastronomic delicacy that has made this small Tuscan town famous throughout the world. Growing in the Sanmini Hills, this area is ideal due to the favorable climate and typical vegetation. Harvested between October and December, it is appreciated for its intense aroma and light yellow or greenish color. The largest white truffle ever found, weighing 5555 pounds (2520 kilograms), was given to U.S. President Eisenhower in 1954.

Every year, San Miniato celebrates the truffle with the Truffle Exhibition, the national white truffle exhibition. The typical dish to try is tagliolino with white truffle, prepared with fresh ribbon pasta and all-natural ingredients.