San Quirico d'Orcia
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The historic town of San Quirico d'Orcia is situated within the Province of Siena and has a population of around 2,500.
Standing at an elevation of 409 metres above sea level, it's located a distance of 114 kilometres south east of Florence, the regional capital of Tuscany. Nearby places of interest include the Val d'Orcia, Pienza, Castiglione d'Orcia and Montalcino. |
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San Quirico d'Orcia and the surrounding area was used as a backdrop for certain scenes in the Gladiator (2000) film starring Russell Crowe. In one such scene, Crowe's character returns home to find his family murdered but it's the beautiful shots of the incomparable Val d'Orcia with its rolling hills and cypress trees that really capture the imagination.
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San Quirico d'Orcia • Tuscany • Medieval Village
San Quirico d'Orcia is a charming medieval town located in the province of Siena, in the heart of Tuscany’s Val d'Orcia. Surrounded by the rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves that define the region's landscapes, it offers breathtaking views of the idyllic Tuscan countryside. The town is known for its well-preserved historical centre, which retains much of its medieval charm, with narrow cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and quiet piazzas that evoke a sense of timeless Tuscany.
San Quirico d'Orcia is home to several notable landmarks, including the Collegiate Church of San Quirico, which features beautiful frescoes and artwork, and the charming Horti Leonini, a Renaissance garden that offers a peaceful escape with its manicured greenery and statues. The town is also part of the UNESCO-listed Val d'Orcia, a region renowned for its extraordinary landscapes and cultural significance.
Nearby, the town of Pienza, with its famous Renaissance architecture and panoramic views over the valley, is just a short drive away, offering additional exploration of Tuscany’s artistic heritage. The wine town of Montalcino, renowned for its Brunello wine, is also close by, providing a taste of the region’s renowned viticulture. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding countryside offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and photography, with scenic trails leading through the hills and offering picturesque vistas at every turn. San Quirico d'Orcia's central location in the Val d'Orcia makes it an ideal base for exploring the cultural, historical, and natural treasures of southern Tuscany.
San Quirico d'Orcia is home to several notable landmarks, including the Collegiate Church of San Quirico, which features beautiful frescoes and artwork, and the charming Horti Leonini, a Renaissance garden that offers a peaceful escape with its manicured greenery and statues. The town is also part of the UNESCO-listed Val d'Orcia, a region renowned for its extraordinary landscapes and cultural significance.
Nearby, the town of Pienza, with its famous Renaissance architecture and panoramic views over the valley, is just a short drive away, offering additional exploration of Tuscany’s artistic heritage. The wine town of Montalcino, renowned for its Brunello wine, is also close by, providing a taste of the region’s renowned viticulture. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding countryside offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and photography, with scenic trails leading through the hills and offering picturesque vistas at every turn. San Quirico d'Orcia's central location in the Val d'Orcia makes it an ideal base for exploring the cultural, historical, and natural treasures of southern Tuscany.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Collegiate Church of San Quirico: Visit the town's main church, the Collegiate Church of San Quirico, which dates back to the 12th century. The church features a beautiful Romanesque facade and houses valuable artworks.
- Horti Leonini: Explore the Horti Leonini, a stunning Renaissance garden located just outside the town walls. The garden was designed in the 16th century and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
- Palazzo Chigi: Admire the Palazzo Chigi, a historic palace that once belonged to the noble Chigi family. It now houses a cultural center and art exhibitions.
- Porta Nuova: Take a stroll along the town walls and pass through the ancient gateway of Porta Nuova for panoramic views of the Val d'Orcia.
- Val d'Orcia Landscapes: Explore the picturesque landscapes of the Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, by hiking, cycling, or driving through the rolling hills, vineyards, and cypress avenues.
- Local Delicacies: Enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine at the town's trattorias and restaurants, which offer dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and wines from the region.
- Festivals and Events: Experience the town's lively culture by participating in local festivals and events, such as the Olive Oil Festival and the Flower Festival.
Comune di San Quirico d'Orcia
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Province: Siena
Region: Tuscany Population: 2,600 (in 2024 - source) Size: 42 km² Elevation: 409 metres Close by: Pienza, Castiglione d'Orcia, Montalcino |
My recommended accommodation options for San Quirico d'Orcia:
- Palazzo del Capitano Wellness & Relais Located in a 15th-century building within the medieval village, this hotel offers elegantly furnished rooms with canopy beds and antique décor. Guests appreciate the lush gardens, the on-site Tuscan restaurant, and the wellness centre providing various treatments. The hotel's historic ambiance and central location make it ideal for exploring the Val d'Orcia region. €€€ (high-end)
- Agriturismo Il Rigo Set amidst rolling Tuscan hills, this country house provides rustic rooms with terracotta floors and wooden beams. Visitors enjoy the authentic farm experience, the on-site restaurant serving home-grown organic produce, and the cooking classes offered. The property's location provides an ideal base for discovering the surrounding countryside. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Casanova - Wellness Center La Grotta Etrusca Located near the town centre, this hotel features rooms with panoramic views of the Val d'Orcia. Guests value the extensive wellness facilities, including thermal pools and spa treatments, the outdoor swimming pool, and the proximity to local attractions. The hotel's comprehensive amenities cater to those seeking relaxation and exploration. €€€ (high-end)
- Boutique Villa Liberty - Dépendance - Borgo Capitano Collection Situated in an Art Nouveau villa, this boutique hotel offers rooms with contemporary design and vibrant colours. Visitors appreciate the modern amenities, the proximity to San Quirico d'Orcia’s historic sites, and the personalised service. The hotel's blend of classic architecture and modern interiors provides a unique lodging experience. €€ (mid-range)
- Albergo Le Terme Located in the nearby village of Bagno Vignoni, this hotel offers rooms with classic décor and views of the ancient thermal pool. Guests enjoy the on-site spa facilities, the restaurant serving regional cuisine, and the historic ambiance of the village. The hotel's setting in a thermal town provides a unique experience for relaxation enthusiasts. €€€ (high-end)
