Abbazia di San Galgano — Attraction in Chiusdino

A Hauntingly Beautiful Step Back in Time

The Abbazia di San Galgano (San Galgano Abbey) is a mesmerizing 13th-century Gothic ruin with no roof—just towering stone walls open to the sky. The atmosphere is magical, especially at golden hour when sunlight streams through the empty windows. Don’t miss the legendary Sword in the Stone in the nearby hermitage (Monte Siepi Chapel)—it’s said to be the real-life inspiration for King Arthur’s tale!

Why it’s worth visiting: ✔ Photography paradise: The skeletal arches and grassy floor make for stunning, otherworldly photos. ✔ Peaceful vibe: Far from crowds, ideal for quiet reflection or a picnic. ✔ Rich history: Free info plaques explain the abbey’s rise and fall (or bring a guidebook for deeper context).

Tips: Wear sturdy shoes—the ground is uneven. Pair your visit with the nearby Chiusdino village for lunch or a wine tasting. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups.

A must-see for history buffs, romantics, and anyone who loves evocative ruins. Like stepping into a...

I know very little about Italian Architecture but the Abbey Of San Galgano is a rather moving place. I was lucky enough to photograph a wedding here and seeing a bride walk down the center of this vast, beautiful building was quite something. The wedding I was at had around 80 guests and of course there was ample space for them, you could easily have hundreds! It was also nice to capture their faces as they saw the Abbey for the first time.

We captured photos around the venue after the ceremony and although there were people around they weren't a problem, there are more than enough stunning angles to capture. After photos we made our way to the reception venue Podernovo di Monticiano, which is just 5 minutes away and perfect if you're looking for a traditional Tuscan venue.

All in all if you're considering getting married or just visiting San Galgano I'd highly...

Incredibel roofless Abbey and the surrounding very beautiful and picturesque. The exterior is quite unique compare to other monestary in Italy not just because it is roofless but when you walk into the abbey the lighting is fantastic. I enjoyed the walk down the street towards the abbey. It is surrounded by farmland and beautiful mountains.

The Abbey of Saint Galgano was a Cistercian Monastery founded in the valley of the river Merse between the towns of Chiusdino and Monticiano, in the province of Siena, region of Tuscany, Italy. Presently, the roofless walls of the Gothic style 13th-century Abbey church still stand.

Nearby are the chapel or Eremo or Rotonda di Montesiepi (1185), the tomb of Saint Galgano and the purported site of his death in 1181, a sword said to have been driven into a stone by Galgano,1 and a chapel with frescoes by...