The best traffic-free bike rides around Castelnuovo Di Val Di Cecina

An ancient castle located north of the Monterufoli Forest, Micciano stands out from its high reddish gabbro cliff called the 'Pinzo', which faces the hill on which the village of Libbiano stands, separated from the deep Adio Valley. Its name appears to derive from the Latin 'Fundus Mitianus or Maecianus', the name of a Roman legionary who, benefiting from the 'Julian Law', was gifted a large plot of land in that area in exchange for valorous military deeds. The oldest document of the small village's history, dating back to 947, is preserved in the Episcopal Curia of Volterra and refers to the investiture of Giovanni di Giovanni as parish priest, while a papal bull from Pope Alexius III, dated 1076, confirms the donation of Micciano and its court to the Abbey of Monteverdi by Emperor Henry II of Saxony.

The Montesiepi Hermitage was built immediately after the saint's death, over the ancient hut where San Galgano lived during his last year (1181). The hermitage was consecrated in 1185 by the bishop of Volterra, Ildebrando Pannocchieschi. The small complex consists of the circular church interrupted only by the small apse, the chapel with frescoes by Lorenzetti, and the entrance porch. In the porch, look down to the left and look for an "original" medieval plaque that reminds the pilgrim... that he must die and that life is short. The original church was circular, then the entrance hall was added in 1200. The bell tower and Lorenzetti's chapel were added in the following century. The rectory dates back to the 18th century. The dome, constructed from alternating rows of white stones, is extremely elegant. Inside the Hermitage, in the center of the Rotonda, there is the famous Sword of San Galgano, stuck in the rock for over 800 years.

Built in the 13th century in Gothic style and dedicated to the saint from Chiusdino, today it is completely in ruins: only the walls remain standing, with the apse still in evidence, perfectly facing east, while on the upper part of the facade there are two pointed windows. The roof of the Abbey of San Galgano is no longer there today. The "official" version says that it deteriorated and then fell over the centuries, while an alternative version, according to some legend and according to others truth, states that it was originally made of lead, and was sold by Girolamo Vitelli in 1550. Whatever the truth behind the roof of the abbey, after some restoration attempts that went badly, at the end of the 18th century it was deconsecrated and left to the elements until the present day. The ruins of the Abbey of San Galgano, with its profile still intact and immersed in the Tuscan countryside, offer a truly incredible and particular view. In addition to the roof, the floor is also missing, which during the summer turns into a grassy blanket, while you can still see a transept with three naves and 4 chapels with cross vaults. Next to the Abbey of San Galgano there is the cloister, which was rebuilt at the beginning of the last century, using the original materials. Some accessory rooms are also very beautiful, which can also be visited with the entrance ticket to the abbey, including the chapter house, where the monks originally met to deliberate the main rules of the community, and the scriptorium, which was the place where the monks copied the manuscripts.

The origin of this small town is as a castle. Today only the imprint remains in the urban planning and in the strategic position: perched on a rocky spur between the Trossa and the Adio. Near Micciano, you will find spectacular hairpin bends, perfect for tackling by bike. Smooth climbs, adrenaline-filled descents and breathtaking views make this place a true gem for those who love cycling.

Near Micciano, these hairpin bends are among the most fun you'll ever ride on a bike, both uphill and downhill. The easy slopes and the many panoramic points make this segment truly unique. The asphalt is also in good condition.

Place of worship and prayer Sanctuary dedicated to San Galgano Guidotti, a 12th century knight, with his sword exposed as a sacred relic Strada Comunale di S. Galgano, 53012 Chiusdino SI 0577756700

the past lives on

To see at least as much as the ruins of the church of San Galgano. The chapel is a little off the beaten track and freely accessible. Inside is a simple but beautiful dome and a mosaic ceiling in an adjoining room.