Castelfranco di Sopra

Castelfranco di Sopra is a small Tuscan town in the upper Valdarno, in the province of Arezzo, lying between Florence and Arezzo. Founded in the 14th century as one of Florence's planned 'new towns' (Terre Nuove), it retains a distinctive geometric street layout centred on a main square, typical of settlements created by the Florentine Republic to assert control over the surrounding territory. The historic centre still shows traces of the old fortifications and traditional stone houses. Nearby stands the Badia di Soffena, a Camaldolese abbey founded in the 13th century, notable for its Florentine-style frescoes. The surrounding countryside, gently rolling and cultivated, is dotted with vineyards, olive groves and woodland, offering a classic Tuscan rural setting. The area falls within the Chianti wine region and is well suited to walking or cycling among the hills. Its central location makes it an easy base for exploring Florence, Arezzo and other Valdarno towns such as San Giovanni Valdarno or Figline. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, makes the area pleasant to visit year-round, particularly in spring and autumn when the light and vineyard colours are at their best.