A roofless Gothic abbey and a sword thrust into a rock
In the countryside south west of Siena stands one of the most evocative ruins in Italy: the Cistercian abbey of San Galgano, a great Gothic church of the thirteenth century whose roof collapsed long ago. Today the nave is open to the sky, with grass for a floor and empty rose windows framing the clouds, a setting that has fascinated painters and filmmakers.
On the hill above stands the round Rotonda di Montesiepi, built over the hermitage of Galgano Guidotti, a knight who renounced war in 1180 and, as a sign of his conversion, thrust his sword into the rock. The sword is still there, protected by a glass case, and scientific tests have dated its metal to the twelfth century.
Tip: in summer concerts and operas are staged in the roofless nave; the light is magical in the late afternoon.
Where it is
More things to see in Tuscany
Where to stay near Chiusdino
Tours and activities nearby
Offers from GetYourGuide. Some links are affiliate links: if you book we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.