Bagno Vignoni village in Valdorcia: a unique place in Italy
Bagno Vignoni is a lovely tiny medieval village, set on a scenic hill top at five minutes from San Quirico d’Orcia, in the heart of the Orcia Valley, to the south of Siena.
The hamlet rises right along the Via Francigena, the ancient pilgrimage route leading to the eternal city of Rome from the north of Europe.
Bagno Vignoni is extremely charming and suggestive, with its hot springs waters running into a beautiful pool built by the Florentine family of the Medici; especially atmospheric at night or on cold days when stream wisps rise above the pool.
Warm thermal waters rise up at a temperature of 52 degrees, flowing into the magnificent rectangular Renaissance pool, measuring 49 for 29 meters, that occupies the village’s main square with a Loggia and Renaissance buildings surrounding it, thus creating one of Tuscany’s most memorable sights.
The beautiful buildings in travertine stone enclosing the pool were built by Bernardo Rossellino in honour of Pope Pius II, while the fine loggia is dedicated to Saint Catherine of Siena, that was here many times with her mother, that wished to persuade the daughter from her decision to become a nun.
Ancient Thermal Waters
The thermal springs of Bagno Vignoni were enjoyed since Roman times; and Lorenzo il Magnifico and Saint Catherine of Siena used to come here regularly. Its precious waters, rich in magnesium sulphate and calcium, are curative for skin and bones diseases, rheumatism, and respiratory diseases.
Despite the many wars, devastations, and fires of the Middle Ages, this wonderful village has practically remained unchanged to the present day. Its unique atmosphere, together with the beautiful panorama and the great peace and silence, are perfect to pass a vacation of complete rest and relaxation.
You can take advantage of the springs and bathe in the sulphur pools at Albergo le Terme, refined 3 star hotel right overlooking the Renaissance pool; the hotel is equipped with wellness center and 2 indoor thermal pools, with a very good restaurant. I’m a regular visitor 🙂
This is one of those special places in Tuscany, that one would visit again and again. Have a look…
