Gallina
Discovering the Fraction of Gallina in Castiglione d'Orcia
If you want to visit a fascinating and rich in history place in Castiglione d'Orcia, you cannot miss the Fraction of Gallina. Located in the splendid Val d'Orcia, on the northern slopes of the mountain massif of Mount Amiata, Gallina is developed along the course of the Vellora stream, where the 43rd parallel passes. The village is about 5 km from the municipal capital and about 55 km from Siena.
Physical geography
Gallina is surrounded by a delightful natural landscape that makes it an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts, nature walks, and relaxation. We are in the heart of Tuscany, between the hills of Chianti and the splendid mountains of Amiata. The village is located at the crossroads of the Via Cassia and the Via Francigena and has been a stopover for pilgrims since medieval times.
History
The village of Gallina is an ancient agricultural village that experienced a strong expansion in the post-war years. Nevertheless, numerous fortified houses and former post stations maintain their original appearance, testifying to the history of this place. The village was called "Osteria della Scala" and represented an important destination for travelers on a pilgrimage to Rome.
Monuments and places of interest
Among the monuments to visit in Gallina, there is the Church of Santa Maria dei Campi, the reference church of the fraction. Built in the early 1960s, it has a single nave in neo-Romanesque architecture, with a gable facade with stone facing. Inside, a large stone round arch marks the presbytery area. The church is located in the parish territory of the Collegiata dei Santi Quirico e Giulitta di San Quirico d'Orcia.
Among the other attractions of the area, it is possible to visit the fortified farms and the ancient post stations such as La Poderina, La Rimbecca, La Scala, and Le Briccole, which still preserves the church of San Pellegrino, with the ancient hospice where even Francesco d'Assisi stopped. Another place of interest is the Oratory of Santa Maria Vergine e San Lorenzo Martire, near the La Scala farmhouse.
Culture
Every third weekend in May, the pro loco of Gallina organizes, with the patronage of the municipality of Castiglione d'Orcia, the "Valdorcia in fiera" trade fair event, an annual appointment that celebrates the agricultural and food culture of the area. Exhibitors present their products including mechanical means, gardening equipment, eno-gastronomic products from the Val d'Orcia, and traditional artisan production such as ceramics, wicker, and wrought iron. The event is set up at the sports facilities of the fraction and is a unique opportunity to get to know local producers directly and discover the authentic flavors of Tuscany.
In conclusion
Gallina is the right place for those who love to immerse themselves in nature, enjoying the delightful landscape of Val d'Orcia. The ancient village and the fortified farms are a testimony to the history of the village that has always been an important passage for pilgrims traveling to Rome. Do not miss the opportunity to visit this enchanting place and taste the typical products of Tuscany at the "Valdorcia in fiera" trade fair!
