the History of Montelupo

The power of the city entered into a new phase of great expansion in the first half of the twelfth century. In 1180, the people of Empoli swore a burdensome pact of submission to the people of Florence. In 1184, on the other hand, there was the explosive conflict between the Republic of Florence and the Alberti Counts. The extremely difficult conditions for peace imposed at that time by the people of Florence, virtually meant transferring half of the taxes paid to the Counts. This was a precursor to the transfer of the tower belonging to the Castle of Capraia, which the people of Florence had the duty to maintain or knock down, according to their own wish. This tower was probably the one on the hilltop of Montelupo.

 

Florence reconstructed the castle of Montelupo in 1204, moving many of the local people there, who would otherwise have been crowded into local villages and neighbouring villas.
Then, in the second half of the thirteenth century, the feudality completely lost control of the Valdarno. »»