Santa Cristina was mentioned in the oldest traveller's tales mentioning the Via Francigena, Sigeric's 10th century journey. Its spiritual and logistical significance was due to the presence of an important monastery on the site (Via Dante) of which its medieval plan and seventeenth century additions have survived. Four columns with 8th century capitals inside a Gothic mullion window whose original position was the Corteolona royal palace are still extant.