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Santuario di San Giorgio: A Rural Sanctuary with a Dragon's Tale

Discover the rustic charm and legendary tales of Santuario di San Giorgio in Scansano, a Maremma gem steeped in history and tradition.

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The Santuario di San Giorgio, located near Montorgiali in Scansano, is a former rural parish church transformed into a sanctuary. It's known for its connection to the legend of Saint George and the Dragon, celebrated annually with a traditional cavalcade.

A brief summary to Santuario di San Giorgio

  • Scansano, Province of Grosseto, 58054, IT

Local tips

  • Visit during the Cavalcade of San Giorgio (around April 23rd) to witness a traditional festival.
  • Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Montorgiali, a medieval village with a rich history.
  • Check local listings for opening hours, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Montorgiali, the Santuario di San Giorgio is located a short distance outside the village along the road to Polveraia. The walk is relatively easy, offering views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Public Transport

    From Grosseto, take a bus to Scansano. From Scansano Centrale, you can take another bus towards Montorgiali, or a taxi to the Santuario di San Giorgio. Bus tickets cost approximately €2-€3 per ride. A taxi from Scansano to the sanctuary will cost approximately €15-€25.

  • Driving

    From Scansano, follow the signs towards Montorgiali. The sanctuary is located just outside Montorgiali on the road to Polveraia. Parking is available near the sanctuary. Be aware that parking may be limited during the Cavalcade of San Giorgio.

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Discover more about Santuario di San Giorgio

Nestled in the countryside near Montorgiali, in the municipality of Scansano, the Santuario di San Giorgio offers a glimpse into local history and traditions. Originally a rural parish church (pieve), it evolved into a hermitage (romitorio) before becoming the sanctuary it is today. The sanctuary's origins are somewhat uncertain, though a parish church dedicated to San Giorgio is mentioned as early as the 13th century. However, definitive records of the sanctuary itself only appear in the 17th century. The architecture is simple and rustic, reflecting centuries of modifications. A portico precedes the single-nave interior, which features a trussed ceiling. The main altar, constructed in the 18th century from plaster and stucco, displays an expressive 19th-century painted papier-mâché statue of Saint George slaying the dragon. This statue is considered a rare example of folk art. The Santuario di San Giorgio is the focal point of the annual Cavalcade of San Giorgio, a vibrant celebration held on the Sunday closest to April 23rd. This event draws residents from Montorgiali and neighboring villages who participate in a colorful procession that reenacts Saint George's legendary battle with the dragon. According to local lore, Saint George, a Roman soldier, sought refuge in Montorgiali during the persecution of Christians. After his death, a dragon terrorized the area until Saint George miraculously reappeared, slaying the beast and saving the community.

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