Tempio di San Biagio
A Renaissance centrally planned church on a grassy slope outside Montepulciano, designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder, with a cypress avenue leading to the city gate.
The Tempio di San Biagio was designed by the architect Antonio da Sangallo the Elder, begun in 1518 and completed in 1545. It is a representative example of the High Renaissance centrally planned church, with a Greek-cross plan, a central dome and a bell tower, all built of golden travertine. It stands alone on a grassy slope below the walls of Montepulciano, and an avenue of cypresses leads to the city gate in an elegant composition. The interior is simple and bright, with a fine marble altar. Admission is about €5 including a guided tour. It is a 15-minute downhill walk from the old town of Montepulciano; the uphill return is tiring, so you can also drive to the car park in front of the church.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–18:30 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Montepulciano
- Monticchiello
- Villa La Foce
- Pienza
- Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta
- Podere Belvedere
- Bagno Vignoni
- San Quirico d'Orcia