Tempio di San Biagio
Two kilometres below Montepulciano's hill, where the road bends toward Pienza, the Tempio di San Biagio stands alone in a flat meadow — no piazza, no neighbours, just travertine and sky. The stone came from quarries at nearby Sant'Albino, and in certain light it takes on the colour of warm cream, making the church look as though it grew from the ground rather than was placed on it.
Antonio da Sangallo il Vecchio laid the first stone in 1518 and spent the rest of his life here. He never saw it finished. What he left is a Greek-cross plan with a central dome thirteen metres across, a completed left tower, and a rectory with a double loggia that stands quietly to one side.
💛 What travellers fall for
People who come back tend to arrive in the morning, before the tour buses reach the hilltop town. The 98 cypress trees lining the approach — each one dedicated to a Montepulciano soldier who died in the First World War — slow you down in a way that's hard to explain until you've walked them. The small enoteca near the ticket office is worth the stop on the way out.
The story behind Tempio di San Biagio
On 23 April 1518, three people — two servants named Antilia and Camilla, and a farmer called Toto — reported that a fresco of the Madonna with Child and St. Francis had opened and closed its eyes. Pope Leo X backed the project that followed, and Sangallo began work that same year, modelling the plan loosely on his brother Giuliano's Santa Maria delle Carceri in Prato.
Sangallo died in 1534 with the building unfinished. Construction continued under other hands; the church was consecrated in 1537, though the vault decorations weren't complete until around 1650. The marble dossal behind the high altar, carved by Giannozzo and Lisandro di Pietro Albertini, was set in place in 1584. The right bell tower was never built.
Good to know
The church is a 2 km walk or short drive from the town centre; the orange Pollicino shuttle runs back up to town until 8pm. Admission is €3.50, includes a 25-minute audio guide. Reservations required two days ahead. Open Friday through Monday; Sunday hours start at noon.
Spring and early autumn are the easiest seasons — April and May bring mild temperatures around 15–20°C, and September holds warmth without July's heat. Winter is quiet and occasionally raw, with January averaging a high of 8°C and more rain than any other month; the travertine takes on a darker, more serious tone.
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What travellers say about Tempio di San Biagio
The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio is absolutely stunning and a must-visit when in Montepulciano! This Renaissance masterpiece is over 500 years old, and standing before it, you can truly feel the weight of that incredible history. The church’s architecture is breathtaking – from its elegant travertine facade to its perfectly proportioned design, it’s a testament to the artistry and devotion of another era. The setting is equally magnificent, sitting gracefully just outside the town with beautiful views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a moment of peace and reflection, this sanctuary delivers on every level. Don’t miss this gem – it’s one of those places that reminds you why Tuscany is so special. An unforgettable experience!
Beautiful church. Great view and a good restaurant nearby. A must visit. Not to be missed
Stunnig place! Definitely a must stop while in the region. There are aome magnificent views from there as well.
The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio (Tempio di San Biagio) is a truly charming and peaceful place. We didn’t go inside as there was a €5 entrance fee, but even from the entrance area, the beauty of the structure and its surroundings was clear. The view over the Tuscan hills is absolutely stunning and adds to the special atmosphere of the site. Parking was simple and accessible, making the visit smooth and pleasant. A lovely and worthwhile stop, even for a short visit.
This whole area is so full of beauty. Man and nature working together to make this part of southern Tuscany unique
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