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Chapel Vitaleta: A Tuscan Icon

Discover the iconic Chapel Vitaleta in Val d'Orcia: a picturesque symbol of Tuscany's beauty, history, and serene countryside.

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The Chapel Vitaleta, or Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta, is a captivating chapel situated on a hilltop in Val d'Orcia, Tuscany. Known for its picturesque setting, the chapel is a popular spot for photographers and visitors seeking the quintessential Tuscan landscape.

A brief summary to Chapel Vitaleta

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and photo opportunities.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk from the parking area to the chapel.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially during the summer months.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby towns like San Quirico d'Orcia and Pienza.
  • Check out the 'Gladiator Cypresses', where the last scene of the movie 'Gladiator' was filmed, a short distance from the chapel.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From San Quirico d'Orcia, take the Strada Provinciale 146 (SP146) towards Pienza. After a few kilometers, look for a sign indicating the chapel. Turn onto the dirt road and follow it to the parking area. From there, it's a short walk to the chapel. Parking is free. Be aware that the dirt road can be rough.

  • Walking

    For those who enjoy hiking, it's possible to walk from San Quirico d'Orcia or Pienza. From San Quirico, follow the SP146 and then a small road surrounded by olive groves until you reach the sign for the chapel. From Pienza, take the backroad leaving from the parish church in Corsignano. The walk from either town takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water.

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Discover more about Chapel Vitaleta

Nestled between San Quirico d'Orcia and Pienza, the Chapel Vitaleta stands as a timeless symbol of the Tuscan countryside. This small chapel, framed by cypress trees, has become an iconic image of the Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The chapel's origins trace back to the late Renaissance, with the first mention of it appearing in a document from 1590. It was built on the site of an ancient parish church. The chapel was restored in 1884 by architect Giuseppe Partini, drawing inspiration from 16th-century models. The facade is made with Rapolano stone and features a small rose window. Inside, the chapel has a blue painted ceiling and an altar. Legend says the Virgin Mary appeared to a shepherdess on the site. In 1553, the chapel became home to a statue of the Virgin Mary by Andrea della Robbia. Today, the statue is preserved in the Church of San Francesco in San Quirico d'Orcia. While the chapel is privately owned and not always open to the public, its exterior remains a sight to behold. The surrounding landscape of rolling hills and golden fields adds to the chapel's allure, making it a must-see destination for those exploring the Val d'Orcia.

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