1 – As a rule, one arrives at Sant’Antimo passing through Montalcino. Whether arriving from the north or from the south, along the Cassia, Montalcino appears in front of you, at a distance, high up, with its wide outstretched profile, interrupted every now and again by towers and belfries. Amidst olive trees and vineyards, it dominates over those valleys found to the east of the river Asso, to the west of the river Ombrone, and to the south of the river Orcia. The volcanic profile of Monte Amiata closes the southern horizon of this little town in the province of Siena.
The residence of the Priors and the public diocesan museum, with paintings by Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti, and other Tuscan artists, as well as an important medieval wood-sculpture section are to be found in the old characteristic medieval town centre. The main attraction of this place is however, the Fortress (Fortezza), a huge medieval castle, with a most unusual scenic impact – and a symbol too of Sienese autonomy in opposition to that of Florence. Nowadays it is used as a spectacular stage for plays and concertos, while room has been made in the keep for a wine cellar of great renown. The precious ‘Brunello’ one of the most famous Italian wines – pride and boast of these regions – can be tasted there.
2 – Following the compulsory roundabout signal at the foot of the fortress, the traffic-sign indicates the road to Castelnuovo dell’Abate and the Abbey of Sant’Antimo. The road winds along following the hillside curves, to present large panoramic views on every turn – now onto the lower-down valley, now on dark and shady ravines thickly overgrown by the Mediterranean shrub.
A mysterious atmosphere and intangible feelings accompany the journey towards this extraordinary and eagerly awaited encounter. All at once, the abbey appears in front of you, there, at your right, centred on a large clearing. You are unable to tear your eyes away from it. You perceive it, it is real, but it sweeps you into the surrealism of a dream – it seems to be a vision. A precious pearl encased amidst the velvet of emerald green plains.
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