San Galgano Abbey was consecrated in 1268. After a period of great splendor, it began a slow decline, which in 17th century, eventually brought to its actual condition of splendid ruin. It is a majestic cathedral with no roof, full of mystery and magic, which make it possible for the visitor to feel instantly absorbed in the coils of Middle Ages.
The varied Opera festival performance program shall find its natural expression in this wondrous space. An ancient path links the Abbey to the Chapel of Monte Siepi, where we can still see the legendary sword in the rock. The Abbey is the most significant example, after the Fossanova in Lazio of the gothic-cistercensis architectural style in Italy. Together with the Chapel, the Abbey represents the most important religious monument in the territory of Siena and it is immersed in the country that has made Tuscany famous worldwide.
A theater seating about 800 viewers shall be arranged within the Abbey, preserving the historical and architectural worth of this magnificent place. The stage shall be placed within the absyd, while the public shall occupy the central nave.