San Salvatore
Welcome to Abbadia San Salvatore: a small gem in the province of Siena
Hello everyone! Today I want to introduce you to Abbadia San Salvatore, a municipality of about 6,000 inhabitants located in Tuscany, in the province of Siena. This place will certainly leave you enchanted, thanks to its wonderful position on the Sienese slope of Monte Amiata.
But it's not just the view that makes Abbadia San Salvatore a special place. In this article, I will talk about its climate, the origins of its name, and its history. Let's find out more!
Physical geography
Territory
Abbadia San Salvatore is surrounded by the massif of Monte Amiata, the highest extinct volcano in the whole of Tuscany. This is why the town enjoys breathtaking landscapes, surrounded by forests and trails that take the mind to another world. What could be more relaxing than walking or cycling along a path among trees, looking at the wild nature and the skyline?
Climate
The elevated position of Abbadia San Salvatore means that the climate is generally cold in winter and mild in summer. During the winter months, temperatures often drop below zero, but don't worry: the dry atmosphere will help you endure the cold. In summer, you can enjoy a cool climate, thanks to the influence of the mountain on the area.
Origins of the name
The name of Abbadia San Salvatore derives from the abbey of the Order of St. Benedict, founded in 743 by Rachis, Lombard Sovereigns. Although the abbey was suppressed in 1782, many parts of its architectural complex are still visible, including the crypt now officiated by the Cistercian Order.
History
Lombard foundation and expansion during the Middle Ages
The monastery was built at the end of the 8th century by the will of Rachis, who decided to build a monastery in the Amiatine territory to protect and control the traffic along the Francigena route and to develop the agriculture of that area of the Lombard Tuscia.
Over the centuries, the territorial power of the abbey grew considerably, stretching well beyond the mountainous area of Amiata and encompassing the Val d'Orcia, the Val di Chiana, and the province of Viterbo.
Despite its great historical importance, the abbey of Abbadia San Salvatore defeated many opponents, including the powerful noble family of Aldobrandeschi of Santa Fiora and the Orsini, and in general the allies of the emperors, especially when they had conflicting relations with the Papacy of Rome.
Today, Abbadia San Salvatore is a small gem of Tuscany, with a rich historical and cultural heritage. I hope you enjoyed this brief overview of its geography, climate, origins, and history. Come and visit us and get ready to be amazed!
