San Casciano dei Bagni

Set on the southern border of the province of Siena, San Casciano dei Bagni has been celebrated, since the earliest times, for its abundant thermal waters. The 42 springs that flow out profusely within its territory were discovered by the Etruscans and developed by the Romans. The feudal aristocracy of the Middle Ages also made great use of them. The importance of the waters was at the height of its fame in the period that went from the Renaissance to the middle of the XVIIIth century. Today, the same source, feed the ultra-modern Fonteverde Spa centre, which has very quickly become one of the most famous and acclaimed spas in the world. Thanks to its densely wooded, uncontaminated environment, San Casciano is also one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers, who can enjoy an ideal stay. The medieval layout of the historic centre of San Casciano has a maze of narrow streets, alleys and squares that wrap themselves round the hill and wind upwards towards the Collegiate and the Town Hall. The only remains of the ancient "suburbium" is the church of Santa Maria della Colonna, standing in the heart of the countryside surrounding the spa area and dating back to the IVth-Vth century. Celle sul Rigo, the small village 4 kilometres far from San Casciano, is located upon a hill that dominates the Paglia Valley, in front of the Monte Amiata. Its sweeping and fascinating views were much admired by the poet Giosué Carducci, during the years he spent there with his family. Palazzone, the other small village near San Casciano, is mainly rural and produces high quality wine and olive oil. The castle of Fighine is a gem that shouldn't be missed. From the castle, you can see right over the Val di Chiana as far as the distant peaks of the Umbria Appennines. Due to its historic heritage and magnificent surroundings, as well as its conservation policies, San Casciano has been awarded the Orange Flag and has been nominated one of the Most Beautiful Old Towns of Italy.

The Castle

San Casciano's castle, in spite of its architectural style, was built in 1911 and owned by the Bologna family. Such castle overlooks Piazza Matteotti, enriched by elegant double lancet windows and surrounded by a wide park. With its stately and medieval appearance it gives a characteristic look to the village of San Casciano and is visible anywhere.

Church of Saint Conception

It is a small Church of 16th century situated in the historical town centre, near the well and the "casacce" area. It was established between the end of 15th and the beginning of 16th century, and it was the seat of the Company of the Conception, with their aiming to help the poor people. The building has a hutted roof with a simple façade. In the interior, behind the altar, you'll find a fresco divided in panels: at the top of the wall there is "the conception of the Virgin Mary", enriched with two plastered angels, opening both sides of the curtains next to the Madonna; at the bottom of the wall,Adam and Eve, chained to a tree, with Moses and David behind them. At both sides there are two niches with Saint Peter and Saint Girolamo, and two plastered angels holding a chandelier. These frescoes are attributed to Niccolò Circignani, called Pomarancio (second half of 16th century). Very interesting is the stoup, for the sculptured symbol at the inside.

Church of the Capuchins

Founded by the Capuchins friars on the 18th October 1579, it has been partly renewed of its original structure. Next to this small church, you will find a convent and a ruined cloister, purchased by the Bologna family. Such church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary child and it is closed all year long, except for the 8th of September. The interior is painted in a simple and essential way, with flower decorations on the medallions of the walls. Above the altar, you will find a painting of the Virgin with the Holy Child, over which there is a plastered and gilded crown, kept by two angels.

Pagan Temple of the 5th century

This temple is probably the most antique monument of San Casciano, and it is located next to the arcades of the Spa, along the path. The history of this construction is detailed but uncertain: it has been restored in 1920, and consequently in 1980. Most certain we can affirm that this temple, dedicated maybe to the goddess of health "Igea", should have become the antique "Pieve", also called Church of the Baths, or of the Madonna of the Column. Inside you will find a Renaissance altar of the 16th century, situated on a podium with a canopy; pillars and frescoes adorn the walls with a Roman style portal. Next to the building there are the vestiges of an old Franciscan convent of the 15th century, used as an old people home, ran by the Company of Saint Anthony. It was also the place to give hospitality to the foreigners coming to the spa for thermal cures.

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San Casciano dei Bagni