🇬🇧 San Galgano Abbey: History, Legend, and Spiritual Beauty in Tuscany

Located in the municipality of  Chiusdino, about 30 km from Siena, the  Abbey of San Galgano  is one of the most fascinating and scenic destinations in Tuscany. Its roofless Gothic structure and the  legend of the Sword in the Stonemake it a truly unique place where history and myth meet.

🕰️ A Bit of History

The abbey was built between 1218 and 1288 by  Cistercian monks, following the architectural rules of their order. During the 13th century, it became one of the richest and most influential monastic communities in Italy, supported by emperors and popes.

However, from the 14th century onward, the abbey fell into decline due to plagues and economic hardship. In 1786, lightning struck the bell tower, causing the roof to collapse. Since then, it has remained open to the sky, giving it a haunting and unforgettable charm.

🗡️ The Legend of the Sword in the Stone

Not far from the abbey stands the  Hermitage of Montesiepi, a circular chapel built where  Saint Galgano, a 12th-century knight, renounced violence and became a hermit. Legend says he thrust his sword into a rock as a symbol of peace — and it remains there to this day, visible inside the hermitage.

🎥 San Galgano in Film

Thanks to its atmosphere, the abbey has been featured in several films, including  Nostalghia  by Tarkovsky and  The English Patient  by Anthony Minghella.

📍 How to Visit

The abbey is easily reachable by car from Siena via the SS73 towards Grosseto. It is open to visitors and offers a powerful experience of  art, history, and spirituality.