After three weeks of pretty busy group travelling we had designated today as a rest and relaxation day but, after three weeks of travelling, things like laundry are essential. So off we went to the lavanderia. One of the things we love about Italy is that even the most mundane of tasks can become an enjoyable experience.
After entrusting almost our entire suitcase contents to the washing machine ...
... we were able to go next door and enjoy a cappuccino in the sunshine.
After a lunch of fresh bread, tomatoes and pecorino sheep's cheese, and some reading time, we did more exploring around town.
San Quirico d'Orcia is a village of Etruscan origins and written records date it back to 712 A.D. From the 11th century the village grew, especially because of its position on the Via Francigena (the road from Canterbury to Rome). It is also at the centre of the Val d'Orcia, a cultural landscape recognised by the UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2004. The population of San Quirico d'Orcia is about 2,500.
Pienza in the distance - we might walk there in the next few days.
There are three churches in the village. Chiesa Santa Maria Assunta dates from the 11th century and is quite small and simple. Of Romanesque style, it is considered a magnificent example.
Behind the church is the Giardini delle Rose, an old walled rose garden which does need some renovation.
The Ospedale della Scala was a 'hospital' built in the 12th century offering shelter to pilgrims and travellers passing along the Via Francigena. In the courtyard is a 16th century well and a small loggia.
The Chiesa di San Francesco has undergone many changes over the centuries but as it is situated on the main piazza, it has gained many art works, the Andrea della Robbia 'Madonna' is an important one.
The Chigi Palazzo was built in the 17th century by Cardinal Chigi and is now the property of the town council and houses the Town Hall and a museum.
The present Collegiata di San Quirico was built on the site of an old parish church dating from the 8th century and is quite imposing. It has three grand doors with stone lions, sadly being worn away by the ravages if time. Inside are valuable art works including a triptych from the 1400s by Sano di Pietro.
The Horti Leonini gardens were laid out by Diomede Leoni in 1580 and is a superb example of the Italian garden. The statue in the centre of the lower perspective is of Cosimo III de Medici and was sculpted in 1688.
If you are ever here. Go to the Bottega above. Young family having a go.
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