The setting: the Chapel of Montesiepi and Abbey of San Galgano
The holiday villa and its chapel are part of a country estate which dates back to the 12th century.
Legend has it that Galgano, a wealthy and arrogant local knight, gave up his warlike ways and plunged his sword into the rocky hill in a vow of poverty. The sword is still there, in the Gothic chapel built around it at the time of Galgano's canonisation in 1185 — it was generally assumed to be a charming hoax until recent advances in metal dating techniques confirmed its age...
The villa was built at about the same time, originally for use as a convent. Along with the chapel, the striking Romanic hermitage, and the ruins of the Gothic abbey below, the villa makes up part of one of Siena's most important religious monuments. Cleaned up, restored and flood-lit at night, it is a wonderfully peaceful and evocative spot.
The accommodation: holiday villa and cottage
La Cappella di Montsiepi offers holiday accommodation for up to twelve guests, ten in the villa and two in a guest cottage. The owners have restored the property to the highest standards, combining modern comforts with a traditional, complementary decor.
The villa's door is a grand Siennese arch, which opens onto a double staircase leading to a spacious terrace with enchanting, panoramic views. There is a private swimming pool in front of the villa and gardens where guests can enjoy the relaxation of country life.
Ground Floor: Entrance hall that opens onto a dining area; large living room with two seating areas and French doors leading to a spectacular garden terrace; large, fully equipped kitchen with table and fireplace. Laundry room with washing machine and tumble-dryer.
First Floor: Large drawing room with fireplace, TV, breakfast corner; small fully equipped kitchen; spacious master bedroom with queen-size bed (shares a spacious bathroom with the small twin bedroom); queen-size bedroom with en-suite bathroom; double bedroom with en-suite bathroom.
Upper Level: Queen-size bedroom with dressing room and en-suite bathroom.
Guest Cottage: Entrance from the terrace to the studio featuring a queen-size bed, fireplace, kitchenette and bathroom.
The welcome is friendly and helpful - the owners are happy to arrange a welcome dinner and/or shopping for your arrival and breakfasts are also available by arrangement. Other possible extras include a chef; weddings and banquets; meetings and small conferences; cookery courses; and wine/olive oil tours.
