CONVENTO SAN BARTOLOMEO

The Convent of San Bartolomeo is one of Tuscany's best-kept secrets, nestled on the slopes of Mount Amiata, the largest lava dome in Tuscany. The complex has preserved its original design and layout without undergoing any alterations: it has a covered cloister spanning ancient colonnades, with an ancient well and dual access to the secular vegetable garden and the Belvedere overlooking the rolling hills of the Val di Paglia valley, dominated by the Tower of Ghino di Tacco’s fortress. Spacious frescoed reception rooms unfold around the medieval cloister. This historical residence provides comfortable suites and cosy bedrooms, and still preserves the original cells and outbuildings that face the garden. The Ricci Barbini family, who inherited this precious legacy, fully restored the convent to its original splendour in 2008, welcoming visitors seeking an enchanted location steeped in ancient beauty, where it is possible to rediscover timeless emotions and sensations.

THE HISTORY OF CONVENTO SAN BARTOLOMEO

It is said that Saint Francis of Assisi himself chose this site for the first Franciscan Friary, the Convent of Castrum Plani Castagnarii. The foundation stone was laid on 5 September 1278 by the Bishop of Sovana, Monsignor David Dandini. Initially, the Convent was inhabited by ten friars who were able to assure its maintenance thanks to bequests, donations from pilgrims and the assistance of local farmers.

During the Renaissance period, the Convent was enlarged, the Cloister with its elegant Corinthian columns was built, and the Chapter room was frescoed with an evocative series of monochrome paintings dedicated to the story of the Virgin Mary, dating back to 1424. In 1504, the Bishop entrusted the Convent to the order of the Minor Conventual Friars of Terra di Piano, on the condition that they paid him an ‘annuatium’ of one pound of wax every year.

With the suppression of church property by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1808, the Convent was closed, and the friars were dispersed. All the assets belonging to the friars were put up for auction and for the most part purchased by the ancient leaseholders and tenants, and by wealthy members of the landowning class. The Convent was first suppressed following the Napoleonic edict and subsequently requisitioned by Grand Duke Leopold of Tuscany. It was then purchased by the noble Malvolti family from Siena and from 1808 was leased to the Barbini family.

FACILITIES AND SERVICES: ACCOMMODATION, WEDDINGS AND PRIVATE EVENTS AT CONVENTO SAN BARTOLOMEO

Visitors are invited to stay in one of the Convent’s 15 rooms and admire the private collection of masterpieces and breath-taking views of the gentle Tuscan hills. This historic landmark is perfect for a romantic getaway, wine tasting or a wedding in authentic Italian style.

The Convent is the ideal place to make the most important day of your life, your wedding day, unique, and can be celebrated in the adjacent church or within the complex. This historical residence provides a location of great charm, guaranteeing an unforgettable occasion, and offers an atmosphere which has a blend of warmth and joyfulness, with a full commitment to guaranteeing your day is simply first-class. The Convent's structure provides various indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate all your ceremony and reception preferences. The large, peaceful outdoor area is discreetly enclosed by ancient walls with a host of suggestive spots to take full advantage of, such as the Belvedere with its spell-binding views, the ancient vegetable garden and the more intimate the cloister. The refined indoor reception rooms, also available as an alternative solution in the event of less clement weather, can accommodate a total of 120-150 people, enabling guests to step back in time and recapture the magic of a bygone era. It is possible to choose from different ambiances including the Refectory, the Hall of Saints, the Wine Cellar and the Refreshment Rooms, which will all be entirely at your disposal for the whole celebration.

Thanks to their lengthy experience and knowledge of the location, the owners will help you create a fully personalised event, advising you on the best choice of arrangements to suit your needs and tastes. Every occasion can be fully customised and will be tailored to the individual client's requirements. The Convent of San Bartolomeo has always been renowned for its seriousness and professionalism, ensuring a service of the highest quality.