San Galgano Abbey and the Montesiepi Hermitage

Clearly visible from a distance, the striking ruins of the ancient Abbey of San Galgano stand majestically against the rolling hills of the Val di Merse.

The imposing walls, soaring toward the sky, along with columns, arches, and walls adorned with intricate Gothic motifs, create an atmosphere that hovers between mystery and spirituality. The ruins of the Cistercian abbey and the nearby Rotunda of Montesiepi, built over the saint’s tomb, attract visitors from all over the world every year.

Located between Chiusdino and Monticiano, San Galgano is considered one of the most important monastic complexes in Tuscany. Founded in the 13th century by Cistercian monks in honor of Saint Galgano, the abbey gradually fell into decline. The collapse of the bell tower and the roof in the 18th century marked its abandonment and final deconsecration.

A monument that symbolizes medieval Tuscany

Today, the ruins of the Abbey of San Galgano are one of the region’s most iconic and visited medieval sites. Among the areas still open to visitors are the remains of the cloister, the church, and the spaces once used for monastic work. The absence of a roof allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a stunning setting and an unusual view of the sky that makes for a truly unique experience.

The Legend of the Sword in the Stone

Not far away is the Hermitage of Montesiepi, which is definitely worth a visit. The round church, built around 1186 over the saint’s tomb, houses a fascinating relic: the legendary sword in the stone. According to tradition, Galgano Guidotti (1148–1181), a young knight of noble birth, received a vision of the Archangel Michael, who urged him to abandon his worldly life. Having withdrawn to the hill of Montesiepi as a hermit, Galgano thrust his sword into a boulder, symbolizing his renunciation of violence and his choice of faith. The sword is still visible inside the hermitage. Next to the church, a small chapel houses precious frescoes by Ambrogio Lorenzetti (1290–1348), one of the most refined Sienese painters of the 14th century, which are still partially preserved and appreciated by art lovers.