In Siena's province there's a place that perfectly interweaves History, Magic and Emotion.
San Galgano, a magnificent 13th century abbey built here in the heart of tuscany, with its history and appearance became one of the most interesting tourist and wedding destinations of tuscany.
The missing roof and the imposing walls make every ceremony look like it's straight out of Lord of the Rings.
Getting married here is truly a unique experience, here are three reasons why you should definitely celebrate your wedding here, plus one reason why you should slow down and maybe reconsider your choice.
Reason n.1: it's going to be magical
The goth architecture, the missing roof, the tall and imposing structure is truly fairy tale material.
Pretty much no other place in tuscany (dare i say "in italy") will have the same impact and ethereal feeling.
It's uniqueness is what it's going to make your wedding ceremony truly unforgettable.
There's an exceptionally quiet vibe, it's one of those places where whispering is already too loud, and that makes every moment poignant and full of significance, the world waits outside, everything is focused on the couple getting married, making the ring exchange an even richer moment.
Plus you'll have bragging rights for life.
Reason n.2: In the middle of everything
If you're staying at the Agriturismo San Galgano not only you'll wake up and dine with a spectacular view, but you'll also have an interesting set of close cities and villages to visit.
Move up north and in no time you'll be in Volterra, medieval village known for its Alabaster expertise.
Go south and you'll be in Montalcino, home of the Brunello di Montalcino, perfect stop for wine lovers.
Look east and you'll be in Siena, the world famous city known for its Palio.
Head west and you'll be in Populonia, historically one of the most important Etruscan villages.
History and culture, all within a short drive from an already magical starting point.
Reason n.3: Quintessentially tuscan
Once you get there you'll have a taste of the entirety of tuscany right in front of your eyes.
An ancient building filled with history with cypress trees leading up to it, quiet fields surrounded by the ever famous rolling hills, an Agriturismo with amazing local and traditional food, made with love, care and even more local ingredients, people all around living at a slower pace, enjoying every step in the fresh tuscan air.
You park your care and immediately find yourself in a different dimension, where simplicity and tranquillity are the only laws you need to abide to.
But if San Galgano abbey is so unique and beautiful, why should i change my mind?
San Galgano abbey is a unique and magical place indeed, but being this unique comes with a double cost: the first one is the rental price for the venue, depending on the weekday and added services the sole ceremony can set you back an average of €2000, which for some couples is a hefty chunk of their total wedding budget, might be the difference between having a videographer or not.
The second price is privacy: you cannot rent the abbey exclusively, meaning that the doors will be open to the public even during your ceremony.
This means having a curious crowd of unknown tourists watching you and your significant other getting married, listening to your vows and exchanging rings. They won't interrupt or get in the way, but be prepared to have some extra eyes watching you walk down the aisle.
To be honest, if having some random people watching me getting married in one of the most magical places in tuscany i'd be willing to "pay" that kind of price.
True, there might be some stranger in the background, but i would never pass the chance of saying "i got married in San Galgano abbey" with a smug smile on my face.
