The tower of San Niccolo’ was once a part of a gate or portal in the former defensive walls that surrounded Florence. Like all the other medieval gates in the city, it was fortunately not razed in the 19th century expansion of the city, but like the others, it stands rather forlornly in an isolated position.

A piazza was built around this particular gate and interestingly enough, it is known as the Piazza Giuseppe Poggi, about whom I have written in this blog many times.

The gate was erected in 1324 and stands 115 feet tall. I was lucky enough to enter the tower through its 160 steep steps a few summers ago. Florence will occasionally open the gates for visits and its best to sign up ASAP if you want to be one of the lucky people to enjoy the experience!

The gates of Florence were built to the designs of architect/artist Arnolfo di Cambio for the circumferential walls around Florence.