Santa Fiora, the medieval Ghibelline stronghold

The village of Santa Fiora, linked to the cult of Saint Flora, has ancient origins already documented in the 9th century.

In the Middle Ages it became an important center under the Aldobrandeschi, who obtained from the emperor the privilege of minting coins. A protagonist in the struggles between Guelphs and Ghibellines, Santa Fiora took part in the Battle of Montaperti and became a Ghibelline stronghold against Siena, even mentioned by Dante in the Purgatorio. With the division of the Aldobrandeschi territory (1274), it became the capital of a county that included numerous villages of southern Tuscany.

At the end of the 15th century it passed to the Sforza, who enriched the town with works of art, palaces, and the famous Peschiera, even hosting Pope Pius II. With Guido Sforza, the Statutes of Santa Fiora were granted and the folklore of the “dragon” slain by the count took shape. In the following centuries, the family forged alliances with the Farnese, Orsini, and Medici, until the transition to the Grand Duchy of Tuscany in 1632, while maintaining wide autonomy. From the 17th to the 18th century, the Sforza-Cesarini preserved a prestigious role. Between the 19th and 20th centuries, Santa Fiora developed thanks to cinnabar mines.

Today it is a renowned tourist destination on Mount Amiata, guardian of history, art, and traditions.

What to see in the village of Santa Fiora

Santa Fiora is divided into three terzieri rich in history and art.

The Terziere di Castello preserves the medieval soul of the village: here you can admire the remains of the Aldobrandesca Fortress, the Sforza Cesarini Palace with unique 16th-century frescoes, and the Mercury Mines Museum, which tells the story of the mining tradition. Also located here are the Parish Church of Saints Flora and Lucilla, with extraordinary robbiane, and evocative squares such as San Michele and dell’Olmo.

In the Terziere di Borgo, passing through the Porticciola, you can enjoy spectacular views of the valley and visit places of worship such as the Sanctuary of the Holy Crucifix and the Church of Sant’Agostino, as well as the characteristic Jewish Ghetto.

In the Terziere di Montecatino stands the splendid Peschiera, a Renaissance park-garden that houses the springs of the Fiora River and the Church of Madonna delle Nevi. Outside the historic center, worth visiting are the Convent of the Holy Trinity, immersed in an ancient forest and tied to local legends, and nearby Monte Labbro, associated with the prophet David Lazzaretti.

Also noteworthy are the Fiora Springs, visible beneath your feet from the Church of Madonna delle Nevi, which feed the Peschiera, once a trout nursery and later a park-garden.

Local events and traditions

Among the most awaited events in Santa Fiora’s rich calendar is the Santa Fiora in Musica International Festival, with world-class concerts in churches and evocative venues, and the Palio of Saints Flora and Lucilla, held on the last Sunday of July.

Autumn is dedicated to the famous festivals of the Amiata mushroom and the Santa Fiora chestnut, with tastings and woodland visits. The year opens with the New Year’s Concert, followed by the Befanate and the characteristic Carnevale Morto of Marroneto.

In May, old traditions are revived with the Canti del Maggio and the Festa delle Croci. Summer is lively with the Feast of Madonna delle Nevi, fireworks, food festivals, the Palio dei Somari of Bagnolo, and the Giro delle Fonti of Selva. Winter is animated by nativity scenes, Christmas carols, and the evocative Torchlight Procession of December 30, which lights up the village with torches and collective celebrations.

Things to do around Santa Fiora

Santa Fiora lies at the foot of Mount Amiata, the symbolic peak of southern Tuscany. This makes it an ideal base for countless historical itineraries and nature excursions. You can stroll through woods and forests, explore the Monte Labbro Nature Reserve, visit the Amiata Wildlife Park to admire rare animals in their habitats, or discover the WWF Oasis Bosco Rocconi.

If you want to be captivated by enchanting landscapes, set off for Santa Fiora!

photo credits Dragoncello