Tuscan Legends Tour: The Sword in the Rock & the Black Rooster

Commence your journey as our expert local driver picks you up at your address. Traverse the iconic Tuscan landscape, adorned with vineyards, olive trees, and tall cypresses, setting the stage for an enchanting day.

Continue your journey to the Abbey of Saint Galgano, cradled in the scenic valley of the river Merse. Here, the legend of Galgano Guidotti unfolds—a 12th-century warrior turned saint. Galgano, a once-valorous knight entangled in the tumult of battles, underwent a profound metamorphosis. Tired of a world steeped in violence, he embraced a life of devotion, ascending Montesiepi hill to serve God. In a symbolic act, Galgano thrust his sword into a rock, crafting a cross for his prayers. This transcendent gesture, blurring myth and reality, is embodied by a sword in the stone—a testament to his spiritual journey. Authenticated in 2001, the sword aligns with the era, adding a tangible layer to the mystical tale. Explore the Abbey and Eremo of Montesiepi, where the captivating stories of Saint Galgano come to life, seamlessly weaving history and myth.

Within the formidable walls of Monteriggioni Castle, a ghostly tale unfolds, echoing the betrayal of Captain Zeti. In a pivotal moment of history, Captain Zeti, entrusted with the defense of the castle, chose a path of treachery. The legend speaks of a haunting instance when Zeti, swayed by undisclosed motives, unlocked the imposing gates, allowing the entry of the Florentines and betraying the trust of the Senesi. Today, Captain Zeti is not just a historical figure; he is a spectral presence, a ghost that wanders the corridors of the castle..

For lunch we will stop at a charming family-run Tuscan farm, a haven of authentic Italian flavors. This agricultural gem, dedicated to organic and genuine products, offers a delightful experience in wine and food pairing, glass etiquette, and the secrets of Italian cuisine. Lunch unfolds as a sensory delight, featuring homemade pasta, succulent ham, renowned pecorino cheese, and the finest Tuscan wines—Chianti, Vernaccia, and Super Tuscan. Revel in the velvety richness of extra virgin olive oil and the nuanced flavors of balsamic vinegar, complementing the Tuscan culinary heritage. Immerse yourself in the rustic charm of the farm, where each bite and sip narrates a story of tradition, passion, and the timeless connection between the land and its bounty.

Our journey concludes in San Gimignano, a medieval marvel celebrated for its iconic towers. Once crowned the "Town of Fine Towers," it echoes the Middle Ages with over 70 ancient spires gracing its skyline. This open-air museum invites you to wander its streets, savoring not only its towered skyline but also the delights of saffron, the Golden Ham, and the renowned white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Indulge in the world's best gelato at Gelateria Dondoli and be captivated by the tales of towers that mysteriously grew, a whispered legend of the Devil's presence in this timeless town.

The iconic Chianti wine road, where the enchanting legend of the black rooster takes flight. In a historic accord, Florence and Siena chose knights to redefine their borders, signaled by the crow of a selected rooster. Siena championed the white rooster, while Florence embraced the black. The clever strategy of the black rooster, released hungry in the dark, allowed the Florentine knight to venture far beyond Siena's reach. Today, this timeless legend weaves into the fabric of Chianti, symbolizing the unwavering spirit of the black rooster that forever shapes the region's narrative.