This vast open space provides a backdrop to San Miniato's monuments, including the 12C cathedral whose belfry was the former castle's defensive tower, the 13C Bishop's Palace, former residence of the Signori Dodici (12 magistrates of the town), the 12C Palazzo dei Vicari dell'Imperatore (Imperial Vicars' Residence) and the Museum of Sacred Art with works by Filippo Lippi among others.