Join this exciting excursion into the Tuscan nature, to the hermitage of Montespecchio, charming building hidden in the forest. Led by our expert guide, discover the history and the secrets of this small architectural gem outside the classic tourist routes.
This unique excursion into theTuscan nature will take you to discover the Hermitage of Montespecchio, a charming place immersed in the green, full of history and mysteries.
Located in the hills that separate the city of Siena from Maremma, the Hermitage of Montespecchio appears suddenly sunk along a creek. It can be reached after crossing a scenic trail of greenish rocks, which dominates the Valle dell'Ombrone, the Montalcino Valley and the rolling hills just south of Siena.
The origins of the Hermitage of Montespecchio date back to the 13th century, and was used as a place of prayer and worship by the Augustinian monks. In the 17th century, due to some violent settlements in the ground, the building was abandoned, which now exudes all its charm from the thick of the forest.
The architecture of the Hermitage of Montespecchio reveals the influence of contemporary French architecture, combining Romanesque characteristics to Gothic ones, in addition to the typical local duotone, this time surprisingly composed of green and orange stripes. A slow but inexorable movement of the ground tilted the structure, bringing down the roof and giving the building its characteristic sloping walls: the lack of perpendicularity often gives the visitor an alienating feeling.
The nature in which the ruins of the Hermitage are embedded is typical of the ‘Mediterranean Macchia’. The smell of the flowers and the colors of the live oaks will lead you to a beautiful journey in the heart of Tuscany.
If you love hiking, get the chance to join our Tour to Rosia and the Hermitage of Santa Lucia. Otherwise, if you prefer spend some more time in nature, book our Tour to Pernina or or hike Tour to Montemaggio. Enjoy the marvellous landscapes of Tuscany!
Meeting point information and local telephone numbers at your destination are included on your Confirmation Voucher.
We suggest that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and wear sunglasses and a sun hat in the summer months.
Also, make sure to do not forget to bring a bottle of water.
You can book your private transportation service with ItalyXP.