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Abbazia di Sant'Antimo: A Tuscan Romanesque Masterpiece

Discover the spiritual and architectural beauty of Abbazia di Sant'Antimo, a Romanesque gem nestled in the heart of Tuscany's Val d'Orcia.

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Nestled in the Val d'Orcia near Montalcino, the Abbazia di Sant'Antimo is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Founded possibly by Charlemagne in the 9th century, the abbey showcases a blend of French and Lombard influences, offering a serene escape into history and art in the heart of Tuscany.

A brief summary to Abbazia di Sant'Antimo

  • Monday 10 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the abbey's website for current opening hours, as they vary seasonally.
  • Consider purchasing the video guide for a more in-depth tour of the church, chapel, crypt and gardens.
  • Visit the Monastic Pharmacy to sample and purchase traditional herbal products made by the monks.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Montalcino, famous for its Brunello wine.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Montalcino, follow the SP55 south for approximately 9 km. The abbey will be on your left. There is a pay and display parking lot directly in front of the abbey. Parking fees typically range from €1-2 per hour.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus line 0P1 from Montalcino to Castelnuovo dell'Abate. From Castelnuovo dell'Abate, it is approximately a 15-minute walk to the Abbazia di Sant'Antimo. The bus ride is about 14 minutes and costs around €1-3.

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Discover more about Abbazia di Sant'Antimo

The Abbazia di Sant'Antimo, located near Montalcino in the picturesque Val d'Orcia, stands as one of the most important Romanesque monuments in southern Tuscany. Legend attributes its founding to Charlemagne in 781 AD, who supposedly built it in thanks for divine intervention during a plague. Historical records confirm the abbey's existence by 814 AD, with significant development occurring in the 12th century. The abbey's architecture showcases a unique blend of French and Lombard Romanesque styles. The basilica-style layout, complete with an ambulatory and radial chapels, is rare in Italy and highlights French influences. The exterior is constructed from travertine stone, giving it a luminous quality that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape of olive groves and rolling hills. Inside, the church features three naves separated by columns with intricately carved capitals. The Carolingian chapel, dating back to the 8th or 9th century, can be seen to the right of the larger church. Over the centuries, the Abbazia di Sant'Antimo has experienced periods of prosperity and decline. It lost possessions to Siena in the 13th century and fell into disrepair by the 15th century. Restoration efforts in the late 19th century, led by architect Giuseppe Partini, revived the church to its current splendor. Today, visitors can explore the church, admire the architecture, and visit the monastic pharmacy to purchase traditional herbal products. The serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-see destination in the Val d'Orcia.

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