Just outside the center of Montepulciano stands the Church of San Biagio, a work of rare beauty also called the Temple of San Biagio because of its monumentality.
The church, designed by Antonio da Sangallo Il Vecchio, is an example of 16th century Tuscan Renaissance architecture. It has a Greek cross plan with a central dome and semicircular apse. On the opposite side of the cross, there are two bell towers, only one of which is finished. The temple, both inside and outside, is entirely clad in amber-coloured travertine slabs. Depending on the light, the stones change hue during the day.
Thanks to the audio guide, you can learn all about this mysterious and fascinating place that was built on an ancient early Christian site dedicated to St Mary. The construction of the present building, the origin of which is attributed to miraculous events, began in 1518 and was completed in 1545.
