'EXVALSE', 'Operation/Project co-financed by the Tuscan Por Fesr 2021-2027'

Contributions >
union icon menu icon

'EXVALSE', 'Operation/Project co-financed by the Tuscan Por Fesr 2021-2027'

Contributions >

Women of Spirit and Action: The Saints of the Valdichiana and Siena as an Example for Today

A Spiritual Journey from the Valdichiana to Siena for the Jubilee 2025

On December 24, 2024, with the opening of the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the Universal Jubilee of the Catholic Church will begin. An event of great importance that inspires and mobilizes hundreds of faithful, eager to reach Rome to renew their spiritual commitment under the sign of charity and forgiveness. For the Jubilee Year 2025, the chosen theme is “Pilgrims of Hope”, highlighting the pilgrimage as a metaphor for a journey of inner growth.

On this important occasion, a tailored itinerary has been designed to explore the rich Christian cultural heritage from the Valdichiana to Siena, immersing oneself in the flavors, landscapes, and traditions that make this part of Tuscany unique. The route follows the stories of Saints Mustiola, Agnes, Margaret, and Catherine—figures who left a significant mark on their places of origin: Chiusi, Montepulciano, Cortona, and Siena.
An opportunity to discover an experience that spans the origins of Christianity and the Middle Ages, while uncovering this extraordinary territory.

 

Chiusi and Saint Mustiola (3rd century A.D.)

The first stop of the itinerary is Chiusi, a town known for its rich historical and cultural heritage tied to the Etruscan civilization, as well as for a lesser-known aspect: the early Christian settlements dedicated to Saint Mustiola, who lived in the 3rd century and was martyred by the Romans for helping Christian prisoners.

A fascinating figure, who, according to legend, managed to escape Roman persecution by miraculously crossing Lake Chiusi on her cloak, transformed into a raft by an angel. On July 3rd in Chiusi, this miraculous crossing is commemorated with a moving celebration on the lake’s waters.
To learn more about the Saint’s story, visitors can find various historical testimonies of her life in Chiusi.

Not to be missed

  • The Catacomb of Saint Mustiola, one of the few paleo-Christian remains in Tuscany (only three such sites exist in the region). Built in the 3rd century near Lake Chiusi, the site contains not only the Saint’s original burial place but also a small basilica dedicated to the area’s early Christian worship.

  • The Cathedral of San Secondiano, where the Saint’s relics were transferred and where her cenotaph can still be admired today.

  • For a tour exploring Chiusi’s Etruscan past and the area’s natural heritage, check out this offer: From the Etruscan Labyrinth to the Reclamation Path by Bike.

 

Montepulciano and Saint Agnes (Gracciano di Montepulciano, ca. 1268 – Montepulciano, April 20, 1317)

From the paleo-Christian period to the Middle Ages—an era of intense religious fervor that, in the Montepulciano area, provided fertile ground for the spiritual growth of Saint Agnes Segni. Since the early 14th century, when the young woman became a nun, her deep spirituality was evident to her fellow citizens. From the convent of Acquapendente (in the province of Viterbo), she was called back by her townspeople to Montepulciano to assist the local population.

In 1316, however, her health became increasingly fragile, and her fellow sisters brought her to the renowned thermal waters of Chianciano Terme, just a few kilometers from Montepulciano, seeking relief. During her stay, her presence comforted many of the sick, but her own health continued to decline. Agnes was eventually taken back to her convent, where she passed away in 1317.

Curiosity: Saint Agnes is not the only important holy figure for the people of Montepulciano. Saint Antilia, a legendary figure, also deeply marked this place. Little is known about her, yet important artistic works depicting her can be found in Montepulciano, such as the Triptych by Taddeo di Bartolo and a fine terracotta by the Della Robbia workshop.

Not to be missed

  • The Church of Saint Agnes: today, her body is still preserved inside the church named after her, located at the entrance of Montepulciano. Built in the 14th century, it underwent some modifications over the centuries, including its façade, which nevertheless preserved its original Gothic portal. Until the reopening of the Cathedral, the Church of Saint Agnes has been designated a Jubilee Church.

  • The birthplace of Agnes Segni and the Chapel of Saint Agnes: located in the hamlet of Gracciano di Montepulciano, where her house still stands next to a small place of worship dedicated to her.

  • The Civic Museum Pinacoteca Crociani: continuing along Via Ricci, visitors will reach the Civic Museum, home to precious Della Robbia terracottas. Among its religious artworks is the Madonna and Child with Saints (1495), which includes a representation of Saint Antilia. The figure on the right has been identified as the personification of Montepulciano’s citizens, shown guarding the sacred relic of Antilia’s head.

  • To conclude the day, don’t miss the chance to visit the ancient wine cellars in the historic center with us and taste a glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG: Historic Cellar Wine Tasting Tour in Montepulciano.

 

If you’re curious to learn more about the Valdichiana Senese and its rich cultural and religious offerings, visit our website or contact us at booking@valdichianaliving.it.