As well as stunning landscapes and natural wonders, the surroundings of Montalcino present one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in Italy. The Abbey of Sant’Antimo is a wonderful church immersed in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, not far from some of its best-known villages. The building is located on top of a hill in Val d'Orcia and it's surrounded by vineyards, olive trees, groups of cypresses, scattered farmhouses and other countless wonders that always amaze first-time visitors.
Want to know more about this tourist attraction? Discover more about Montalcino and the amazing Abbey of Sant'Antimo to plan your perfect tour in Tuscany!
As we already said, the abbey of Sant'Antimo is located a stone's throw from the center of Montalcino. This town standing on a green hill is surrounded by numerous Sangiovese vineyards, which are used to produce excellent red wines such as Brunello, Rosso and Sant’Antimo.
Entering this church is like taking a journey through time and returning to the Middle Ages. It was built during the Carolingian period in the IX century. According to a legend, Charlemagne stopped in this valley on his return from Rome, because his army had been hit by the plague. An angel appeared to the king in a dream, telling him to make soldiers drink an infusion made with a local herb. Thanks to this brew, all the soldiers recovered and Charlemagne decided to build a chapel as a sign of thanks. The so-called Carolingian Chapel stood in place of the current abbey: today, thanks to recent restoration works, you can still see the splendor of the original construction.
The abbey is built with a spectacular material that gives it a unique shine, which is travertine with alabaster veins. The bell tower is in Lombard Romanesque style, while the interior of the abbey has beautiful pillars with decorated capitals. There is also a 9th century portal called "Portale dei Battezzanti", a painting of Madonna and Child Enthroned dating back to 1260 and a polychrome wooden crucifix from the second half of the 12th century. Well, as you can see, this abbey is a treasure trove of beauties to discover!
Don't forget to go to the Monastic pharmacy in the Treasure Hall , where you can find traditional herbal products such as honey, jams, herbal teas and many other products! You can also buy Amaro di Sant’Antimo , a typical liqueur made with the essence of a local variety of grass called "Carlina". Another thing worth seeing is the vegetable garden of Santa Ildegarda, a mystical place with a thousand colors and a profound sacred meaning.
Surely, one of the best ways to experience the abbey is to get involved by its magical atmosphere. Concerts, Gregorian singing courses, medieval miniature courses and various workshops are organized in the abbey and you can easily take part to them. The special environment will make these experiences unforgettable!
Are you ready to go? Book one of our rental properties in Montalcino, like Villa Montalcino and start planning your visit!
© Alice Pilastri
