"The sword in the stone exists"
Tour
From Podere Grotta Antica, there is a route that blends reality and legend, taking you to the Abbey of San Galgano, one of the most mysterious and fascinating places in Tuscany. A journey that evokes the Middle Ages, knights, and spirituality, with an exceptional protagonist: a real sword stuck in a rock.
The road leads you through hills and rows of trees to the imposing Abbey of San Galgano, an extraordinary Gothic church without a roof, where the sky itself becomes the most evocative vault. Walking through its open naves gives you the feeling of being inside a cathedral suspended between earth and sky.
Not far away is the Hermitage of Montesiepi, a small circular chapel that houses an object unique in the world: the sword in the stone. This is not an Arthurian legend, but the true story of Galgano Guidotti, a knight who renounced violence in the 12th century by sticking his sword into a rock, turning it into a cross. Today it is still there, intact for over 800 years, protected by a display case, a symbol of peace and faith.
A visit to San Galgano is already an unforgettable experience, but there are little gems in the surrounding area that will enrich your day. A little further on, the villages of Chiusdino and Monticiano retain their authentic, peaceful atmosphere, with medieval alleyways and picture-postcard views. For nature lovers, the surrounding area offers trails through woods and hills, ideal for a relaxing walk. And if curiosity is stronger than hunger, it is worth stopping at one of the local trattorias, where typical Maremma dishes meet the more rustic flavors of Tuscan tradition.
Visiting San Galgano means walking among ruins that speak to the heart and standing before a sword that has remained immovable for centuries. It is an experience that goes beyond curiosity: it is an encounter with a living legend, which still today tells of the power of choice and the eternal fascination of mystery.