What Makes Abbey San Galgano a Must-Visit?

The Abbey of San Galgano is a treasure trove of history, legend, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Tuscany, Italy. Located between Chiusdino and Monticiano in Tuscany, it is renowned for its unique architectural features.

Accommodation options near the Abbey of San Galgano

Here are some travel tips for the best accommodation to make your trip memorable:

Relais Le Macine Di Stigliano: Located in Sovicille, about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the abbey, this hotel offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, and beautiful views.
La Locanda di Petriolo: Situated in Monticiano, around 35 kilometers (22 miles) from the abbey, this hotel features a garden, private parking, and a stylish interior.
La Melosa Resort & Spa: A 4-star resort in Roccastrada, about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the abbey, offering stylish rooms and a private bathroom.
Hotel Residence Sant’Uberto: Located in Roccastrada, 7.4 kilometers (4.6 miles) from the abbey, this hotel has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a peaceful, isolated setting.

How to get to the Abbey of San Galgano from the nearest cities

It’s super easy to get there by car and makes for a fantastic day trip from cities like Florence or Siena. You’ll find convenient parking right before the iconic cypress-lined path, leaving just a short two-minute stroll to the breathtaking ruins.

If you’re flying in, Florence Airport (FLR) is the nearest airport option—just a 90-minute drive (around 101 km) to the abbey. For those landing in Pisa (PSA), it’s a slightly longer drive of about two hours (158 km) via the E80, but the scenic route makes it well worth it.

From Siena
From Florence
From Pisa
From Rome

By Car: The monastery is located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) south of Siena. Drive towards Rosia for about 20 kilometers (12 miles), then follow the signs for the abbey. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.
By Public Transport: There are limited bus services from Siena to San Galgano. You can take a bus from Siena rail station to the stop “Palazzetto,” which is near the abbey.

By Car: The monastery is approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) southwest of Florence. Take the Raccordo Autostradale Firenze – Siena (RA3) towards Siena, then follow the directions from Siena as mentioned above. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Public Transport: You can take a train or bus from Florence to Siena, and then follow the public transport options from Siena to San Galgano.

By Car: The monastery is around 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Pisa. Take the SGC Firenze-Pisa-Livorno (FI-PI-LI) towards Florence, then follow the directions from Florence as mentioned above. The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
By Public Transport: Take a train or bus from Pisa to Siena, and then follow the public transport options from Siena to San Galgano.

By Car: The monastery is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) north of Rome. Take the A1/E35 highway towards Florence, then take the exit for Siena and follow the directions from Siena as mentioned above. The drive takes about 3 to 3.5 hours.
By Public Transport: Take a train from Rome to Siena, and then follow the public transport options from Siena to San Galgano.

Travel Tip: Trainline offers Italian train tickets at the same price as other ticketing platforms but with a more straightforward and user-friendly process. It also handles foreign credit cards well and provides electronic tickets.

8 Reasons Why the Abbey of San Galgano is a bucket list destination and worth visiting

You can not help but be nostalgic about years gone by at the Abbey of San Galgano, with its many stories and history. Let’s delve into why it is a must-visit and a bucket list destination.

1. Photogenic Location

The abbey’s unique structure and scenic setting make it a photographer’s dream. The interplay of light and shadows within the ruins creates stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.

2. Unique Architecture

The abbey is notable for its roofless structure, resulting from the collapse of the campanile in 1786, which brought down the roof. The open sky framed by Gothic arches offers visitors a unique and serene experience, perfect for reflection and photography.

3. Historical Significance

The abbey dates back to the 13th century and has a rich history tied to the Cistercian monks who built it. Construction of the abbey began around 1218 and was completed by 1288. Exploring its ruins offers a glimpse into medieval religious life and the legacy of the Cistercian order.

4. Scenic Location

Nestled in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, the abbey is surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. The serene landscape provides a perfect backdrop for photography and relaxation.

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5. Cultural Experience

Visiting the abbey allows you to immerse yourself in Italian culture and history. The site occasionally hosts events and exhibitions that highlight local traditions and heritage.

6. Peaceful Retreat

The abbey’s tranquil atmosphere and surroundings offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It’s an ideal spot for contemplation and connecting with nature

7. Sword in the Stone

Adjacent to the abbey is the Hermitage of Montesiepi, built between 1181 and 1185 at the site where Saint Galgano spent his final years. The Montesiepi Chapel commemorates Saint Galgano’s death in 1181. The chapel houses the legendary “sword in the stone,” symbolizing his commitment to a life of faith and peace. This medieval sword embedded in a rock is said to belong to Saint Galgano and adds a mystical allure to your visit.

8. Historical Timeline

After it’s construction, the Abbey of San Galgano gained wealth and allied with the Republic of Siena. However, beginning in 1363, it suffered despoilment by condottieri, leading to its decline. By the end of the 14th century, only the abbot remained. In 1786, the collapse of the campanile caused the roof to fall, leaving the abbey in its current roofless state.

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