ABBEYS and MONASTERIES in tuscany
Abbeys and Monasteries in Tuscany: this really is the land of saints! It is also the land of the Via Francigena, first documented in the year 957 by Sigeric, the archbishop of Canterbury, the road was used for centuries by merchants, prelates, soldiers and pilgrims who travelled up and down from Northern Europe through Siena, the Orcia valley and Rome as far as Jerusalem, bringing ideas, money and produce. In fact, in Siena we can visit the places linked to Saint Catherine of Siena, today the patron saint of Europe thanks to Pope John Paul II and Doctor of the Church. Also, Saint Bernardino, the most important moral authority of the 15th century, Saint Bernardo Tolomei, founder of Monte Oliveto Maggiore and more. In addition, near the town of Montalcino is the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, legend has it that the abbey was founded by Charlemagne aka Charles the Great. A magical and evocative place nestled among the vineyards of Brunello of Montalcino. Finally, the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, founded in 1300 and situated in the extraordinary landscape of the Sienese clay hills, it houses frescoes by Sodoma and Luca Signorelli depicting the life of Saint Benedict, it is also home to some exquisite wood inlays by Fra’ Giovanni of Verona. Although a religious place it is fun to visit and is suitable for all ages. The Cistercian church of San Galgano, renowned for having no roof, to the nearby Hermitage of Monte Siepi and the legend of the Sword in the Stone.
POSSIBLE COMBINATIONS
Siena with focus on Saint Catherine and Sienese Saints:
from 3 to 6 hours
Siena
+
Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore
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6 hours
Siena
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Abbey of Saint Galgano
=
6 hours
Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore
+
Saint Antimo
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4-5 ore
MAP
contacts
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Antonella