This bleak yet beautiful place is located in a remote part of central Tuscany, about 20 km southwest of Siena.
The Abbey of San Galgano was founded in the 13th century as a Cistercian monastery in a rural area in the valley of the River Merse.
The austere Gothic structure was abandoned by the end of the 14th century. In 1786, the monastery's bell tower collapsed, taking the entire roof with it.
The church received only minor repairs and was left as it looked at the end of the 18th century. Today, in the middle of meadows and forests, the preserved outer walls stand without a roof and create an almost oppressive atmosphere of desolation.
Admission and opening hours
You can enter the church by paying an entrance fee.
- 5 eur - Basic entrance fee
It is open every day, but opening hours vary according to the season and can be found in detail on the official website fondazionesangalgano.it/biglietti.
Agriturismo
In close proximity to the abbey you will find two well-rated hotels focusing on agritourism. Stay in the beautiful countryside and enjoy walks through the romantic rolling Tuscan countryside.
How to get there
The abbey is most easily reached by car. Free parking is available along the road.
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There is a bus stop on the main road about 900 metres from the church. Both lines only run from Monday to Saturday. They do not run on Sundays and public holidays.
What to see around
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