Since Saint Minias, a Christian martyr, was buried there in the fourth century, the San Miniato al Monte site has been in use. According to legend, Saint Minias was beheaded in the adjoining Via del Palagio, and angels brought his bones to the summit. The first church on the site was a tiny oratory built in the tenth century. This early church was probably a small, one-nave structure with a timber roof. 

The church was renovated and expanded in the early eleventh century, adding a new façade and bell tower. White Carrara marble was used for the elevation, and green serpentine was used to reconstruct the church's façade, creating a striking visual contrast by intervening in the outer and interior of the building and highlighting cultural aspects. Two smaller doors flank the main entry of the façade, which is decorated with magnificent sculptures and carvings. In the eleventh and twelfth centuries, San Miniato al Monte underwent extensive restorations that changed the building's architectural layout to become the present-day Romanesque-style church. 

In later years, San Miniato al Monte saw extensive renovations during the 13th and 14th centuries when Gothic-style embellishments were introduced. A new vaulted ceiling was installed, and a sacristy was built as part of the internal renovations of the church. The church's bell tower was also reconstructed, and a new spire was installed.

San Miniato al Monte saw extensive modifications during the Renaissance and Baroque periods when additional altars, chapels, and decorative elements were erected. The church's interior was updated with new sculptures and frescoes during the restorations. The church's façade now features a new gateway and railing.

Preservation & Restoration During the late 18th and 19th centuries, San Miniato al Monte received extensive restorations to preserve its architectural and artistic legacy. The church's façade was restored to its original Romanesque style, while the interior was rebuilt to reflect its medieval roots.