Sword in the Stone

Often overshadowed by the legends of King Arthur, the story of Saint Galgano Guidotti and his sword embedded in stone is a true Tuscan marvel. Hidden in the hills near Chiusdino, Italy, the Montesiepi Chapel shelters what many believe to be a miraculous relic—an authentic sword plunged into stone by a 12th-century knight turned saint. Whether legend or truth, the site offers visitors a mystical experience steeped in history and symbolism.

Recommended For

Spiritual Seekers: Explore a sacred story of redemption, humility, and faith.

History & Legend Lovers: Discover the origins of a real-life sword in the stone.

Travelers in Tuscany: Add a lesser-known, awe-inspiring stop to your Italian itinerary.

What to Expect

Location: Montesiepi Chapel near Chiusdino, Tuscany, Italy
Setting: A quiet hilltop overlooking the ruins of San Galgano Abbey
Highlight: A 12th-century sword embedded in stone beneath a domed chapel
Atmosphere: Serene, contemplative, and steeped in mystery

The Story of Saint Galgano

Who He Was: Born in 1148 near Chiusdino, Galgano Guidotti was a wealthy knight who experienced divine visions
His Calling: After seeing the Archangel Michael, Galgano renounced his possessions and became a hermit
The Symbolic Act: To mark his transformation, he thrust his sword into a stone—symbolizing peace over violence

The Sword in the Stone

Current Location: Still embedded in the stone atop Monte Siepi, visible inside Montesiepi Chapel
Historical Validation: Tests on the sword and surrounding remains date to the late 1100s–early 1200s
Protection: Now safeguarded beneath a clear Perspex shield

The Montesiepi Chapel

Construction: Built after Galgano’s death in 1181 to preserve the sword and honor his memory
Architecture: Romanesque style with a round dome—unusual for the region
Setting: Offers panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside and nearby abbey ruins

Legends & Lore

Failed Theft: Legend tells of a man who tried to steal the sword and was killed by wolves
Mummified Warning: The would-be thief’s mummified hand is displayed inside the chapel as a cautionary symbol
Saintly Recognition: Galgano was canonized in 1185 by Pope Lucius III

Connections to Arthurian Myth

Parallels: Galgano’s story closely mirrors the Arthurian legend of the sword in the stone
Unique Origins: Unlike King Arthur’s fictional tale, Galgano’s sword is real and historically verified
Shared Themes: Humility, divine selection, and the impossibility of false claimants removing the sword

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for clear skies and peaceful surroundings
Nearby Sites: Don’t miss the ruins of San Galgano Abbey, just a short walk downhill
Dress Respectfully: As it remains a religious site, modest attire is encouraged inside the chapel

Contact & Map

Montesiepi Chapel – Sword in the Stone
Via San Galgano, 53012 Chiusdino SI, Italy
Visit on Italia.it