San Casciano dei Bagni: 5 things to see in the Valdichiana Senese

San Casciano dei Bagni: a thermal gem in the Valdichiana Senese

In the heart of the Valdichiana Senese, on the border between Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio, San Casciano dei Bagni stands out as one of the most evocative destinations for those who want to immerse themselves in the authentic beauty of a Tuscan village. Listed among the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in Italy’ and awarded the Orange Flag by the Italian Touring Club, this small town perfectly combines history, nature and wellness.

Its origins are intertwined with the spa tradition: already known to the Etruscans and Romans for its healing waters, San Casciano still retains its ancient and relaxed soul. The village blends harmoniously with the gentle hills on which it stands, offering breathtaking views and an atmosphere suspended in time. Its strategic location, between the Val d’Orcia, Lake Trasimeno and Mount Amiata, makes it the ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of central Italy.

San Casciano Dei Bagni: a village steeped in history, nature and wellness

San Casciano dei Bagni is one of the most charming villages in southern Tuscany, nestled between the Valdichiana Senese, the Val d’Orcia and Monte Amiata. The village stands on a hill at an altitude of 582 metres, in a panoramic position offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills. With less than 1,500 inhabitants, San Casciano has managed to preserve its historical identity, made up of traditions, elegant architecture and an indissoluble link with its thermal waters.

Its 42 natural springs, known and appreciated since Etruscan and Roman times, make it one of the most important spa centres in Europe. The village is one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” and has been awarded the “Bandiera Arancione” (Orange Flag) by the Italian Touring Club for its tourist and environmental quality. It is the ideal place for those seeking a rejuvenating break surrounded by art, history and wellness, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

A walk through the historic centre of San Casciano dei Bagni

The historic centre of San Casciano dei Bagni winds its way along a harmonious and intimate route, perfectly adapted to the top of the hill on which it stands. The circular layout of the village naturally guides visitors to discover its most evocative corners, among cobbled alleys, panoramic views and ancient stone architecture. The focal point of the village is the Collegiate Church of Saints Leonardo and Cassia, with its imposing bell tower dominating the town and representing its spiritual heart.

From Piazza Matteotti, a sort of terrace overlooking the Tuscan countryside, one of the most enchanting views in the area opens up. As you stroll around, you will come across historic buildings such as the Town Hall, small churches, loggias and fountains that tell the story of centuries of life and traditions.

It is a place to be explored at a leisurely pace, letting yourself be guided by the beauty of the urban landscape and the intimate and relaxed atmosphere that makes it so special.

What to see in San Casciano dei Bagni: five unmissable stops

San Casciano dei Bagni is not only a renowned spa town: it is also a village rich in history, art and fascinating architecture, all waiting to be explored. Every corner of the village tells a piece of its past, from ancient churches to medieval fortifications, from stately buildings to archaeological finds. Strolling through its streets is like taking a journey through centuries of culture and traditions, breathing in an authentic and welcoming atmosphere.

In this section, we will take you on a tour of five symbolic places in San Casciano dei Bagni: an itinerary designed for those who want to discover the wonders that make this small town so special. From the ancient thermal baths to the Castle of Fighine, each stop is an opportunity to be surprised and enjoy a unique experience in the most authentic part of Tuscany.

The Thermal Baths of San Casciano

The thermal baths are the beating heart of San Casciano dei Bagni, which has always been synonymous with wellness and rebirth. With 42 natural thermal springs and a flow rate of over 5 million litres per day, the village ranks third in Europe for its wealth of thermal waters. Already known to the Etruscans and frequented by the Romans, the springs were considered sacred and therapeutic, as demonstrated by important archaeological finds in 2022.

After a period of decline, thermalism was reborn in the Middle Ages and reached its peak between the 17th and 18th centuries, attracting nobles, prelates and travellers from all over Europe. Today, alongside historical remains such as the Portico della Ficoncella, there is a modern spa centre of excellence, surrounded by nature and equipped with every comfort. The thermal baths are a must for anyone visiting San Casciano: a rejuvenating experience that combines relaxation, history and landscape in a unique setting.

The Collegiate Church of Saints Leonardo and Cassia

The Collegiate Church of Saints Leonardo and Cassia is the main church of San Casciano dei Bagni and one of the most representative symbols of the village. Located at the highest point of the village, it elegantly dominates the skyline of the historic centre thanks to its 17th-century bell tower. Its origins are ancient, but the building has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries, changing from its original Gothic style to the more classical style we see today.

In 1618, it was elevated to the rank of Insigne Collegiata (distinguished collegiate church), governed by a chapter of seven priests, reflecting the strong bond between the church and the local community. Inside, there are architectural elements in travertine, remains of ancient portals and evidence of the lively religious life of the 17th and 18th centuries, when the church was frequented by cardinals and nobles, who were also attracted by the thermal waters. A visit to the Collegiate Church is a journey through the spiritual history of the village.

The Town Hall

The Town Hall of San Casciano dei Bagni is the civic and institutional heart of the village. Once the seat of the Podestà and the Palace of Justice, it has maintained its administrative function over the centuries and now houses the municipal offices and the Mayor’s office. Its structure was partially modified with the construction of the adjacent castle, but it still retains architectural and decorative elements of great interest.

The stone coats of arms of some of the Podestà who governed the town stand out on the façade, while on the left there is a column engraved with the ancient local units of measurement. Inside the atrium, other coats of arms and a 16th-century lintel tell the long institutional history of the village. Of particular note is the presence, in the mayor’s office, of an Etruscan terracotta funerary urn, which bears witness to the historical importance of the area since ancient times. A place that combines civic memory and cultural identity.

The Castle of Fighine and the Tower of Celle

Immersed in the countryside around San Casciano dei Bagni, the Castle of Fighine and the Tower of Celle tell the medieval and military history of the area. The Castle of Fighine, dating back to the 15th century, was enlarged on behalf of the Republic of Siena to strengthen the defence of the south-eastern border of the state. With its square layout and corner towers – including the Torre Vecchia and Torre Saracinesca – it is a perfect example of Renaissance fortified architecture.

Today, the historic centre still develops around its regular layout, with straight streets and a surprisingly large square. Both sites offer not only historical evidence but also breathtaking panoramic views, ideal for a walk to discover the medieval roots of San Casciano and its extraordinary harmony with the surrounding landscape.

Where to stay to visit the Valdichiana: the authentic comfort of the B&B Country House Poggio del Drago

After a day spent between rejuvenating spas, medieval villages and breathtaking views, the ideal place to relax is the B&B Country House Poggio del Drago. Located in a strategic position in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, a short distance from San Casciano dei Bagni, this elegant bed and breakfast offers tranquillity, authentic hospitality and modern comforts.

Surrounded by nature but well connected to the main destinations of the Valdichiana, Val d’Orcia and the province of Arezzo, Poggio del Drago is the perfect base for exploring the beauty of the area, from cities of art to small villages, food and wine trails and spas. The cosy rooms, generous breakfast and attention to every detail make your stay an unforgettable experience.
If you are looking for a combination of nature, culture and wellness, Poggio del Drago is the perfect choice for your Tuscan holiday.