Thermal Baths and Abbeys
 
Foto: Cristiano De Scisciolo (www.cdsweb.it)
 

The Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore

 
   

In the countryside of the Sienese Clays, the abbey appears out of nowhere. Its story begins in 1313, when the nobleman Giovanni dei Tolomei decided to remove himself from the public spotlight and went to a remote property 36Km south of Siena. Today the abbey is a place rich with history. Our visit starts from the church, which holds precious artwork, and the large cloister, which is covered in fresco paintings by Luca Signorelli and Antonio Bazzi. From the large cloister, you will reach the chapter house and the large, beautiful library, which holds rare manuscripts and incunaboli, as well as a “Divine Commedy” translated in Latin. Don’t forget to visit the ancient pharmacy, where the monks prepare extracts, syrups, teas, and ointments that you can purchase. The monks offer hospitality to tourists. For more information: www.monteolivetomaggiore.it.

 
   

Abbey of Sant’Antimo

  
   
This beautiful Romanesque church is described as immense and is found in the valley below the hills of Montalcino. It is a monastic complex, which according to legend, was founded by Charlemagne around 750 A.D. as a thanks for the end of the pestilence that had hit his army. Inside the church don’t forget to check out the capital of “Daniele nella fossa del leoni”, work of Maestro di Cabestany: it is in the second column of the nave from the right. The abbey of Sant’Antimo is illuminated during the night, creating a spectacular scene. The monks offer many different activities and gladden the mass with ancient Gregorian songs that should not be missed. It is possible to sign up for classes lasting 3 or 5 days in order to learn how to sing Gregorian songs. There are two guest-house available to retreat here. For more information, visit the web site www.antimo.it.
 
   

Thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni

  
   
The small medieval suburb of Bagno Vignoni will enchant you with its beauty. Already known during ancient times, it was used by the Etruscans as a source of hot water for the drainage of Val d’Orcia. This sulphur spring were then used by the Romans and was a favourite place of Santa Caterina da Siena, Lorenzo il Magnifico, and Pope Pius II. These waters are particularly indicated to treat rheumatisms, arthritis, osteoartrosi, and respiratory ailments. There are beautypackages available that also include mud baths, massages, and relaxation baths. The Hotel Le Terme (www.albergoleterme. it) offers an excellent restaurant “Le Terrazze”, where it is possible to taste the specialties of this province of Siena.
 
   

The San Filippo Baths

  
   
Bagni San Filippo is a quiet spot, set in the beautiful, wooded cone of the Monte Amiata volcano, alongside the charming Val d’Orcia hills. In this enchanted place, hot springs have left a fascinating trail of peculiar limestone deposits that characterise the surrounding countryside. A footpath immersed in the woods leads to striking sulphurous waters that shroud you in warm vapours. Along the path you can also admire the spectacular limestone deposits, shining white against the vegetation. The recently renovated Nuove Terme San Filippo offer complete hospitality, combining a hotel, restaurant, well-being spa, and heating swimming pool.