The Parish Church of San Leonardo in Cerreto Guidi
A Renaissance jewel among history, art and devotion, custodian of a baptismal font by Giovanni della Robbia
The Parish Church of San Leonardo, located in the heart of Cerreto Guidi, represents one of Tuscany’s least known but most fascinating treasures. Adjacent to the Medici Villa, this religious building has a history rooted in the 10ᵗʰ century, although the present structure dates back to 1180 when it was erected by joining the old Parish Church of San Pietro to the new Parish Church of San Leonardo. Over the centuries, the Parish Church has undergone numerous interventions, including an expansion in the 19ᵗʰ century that gave it its present appearance with 3 naves and an entrance portico. Square and crenellated, the medieval bell tower testifies to the building’s fortified origins.
Important works of art from the 16ᵗʰ century are preserved inside the Church. Prominent among these is the glazed terracotta baptismal font made by Giovanni della Robbia in 1511. The work, characterized by vivid colors and naturalistic details, illustrates scenes from the life of Saint John the Baptist in a style influenced by the painting of the time.
Another significant work is the canvas attributed to Ridolfo del Ghirlandaio, depicting the Madonna Enthroned with Child between Saints Paul and Leonard, a typical Renaissance Holy Conversation. On the high altar is a wooden crucifix attributed to Giambologna, dating from the 14ᵗʰ century.
Other works include a panel painting of Our Lady of the Rosary dated 1577 and attributed to Domenico Buti, as well as an altarpiece depicting the Trinity with Saints Jacopo and Sebastian flanked by donor Tommaso Cordelli, dated 1571 and probably by Pietro Volponi. A painting of the Visitation, attributed to Baccio Gorini, completes the church’s rich artistic heritage.
The Parish Church of San Leonardo is not only a place of worship but a historical and cultural landmark for Cerreto Guidi. Its proximity to the Villa Medicea, the Medici hunting lodge—and the works of art it holds—testify to the importance of this village in the context of Tuscan history.
