Grotta di San Filippo Benizi

The Grotta di San Filippo Benizi is a small chapel carved into a large travertine rock formation in Bagni San Filippo, nestled at the foot of a thermal spring area. The natural stone creates the vault overhead, and two walls enclose the ends of the structure.

Saint Philip Benizi arrived at this location in 1269 to spend three months in seclusion after learning of his potential nomination as successor to the pope. This episode established the site as a spiritual refuge in local tradition.

The grotto houses an 18th-century plaster bust of Saint Philip and a wooden crucifix inside a tabernacle, which tradition attributes to the saint himself.

The site remains accessible to visitors year-round and can be explored independently without specific operating hours. Nearby facilities at the thermal spring area of Bagni San Filippo are just a short walk away.

Local legend tells that the thermal waters of Bagni San Filippo emerged when the saint struck his staff against the grotto rock. This origin story remains deeply connected to how visitors understand the springs today.

Location: Castiglione d'Orcia

GPS coordinates: 42.92692,11.69075

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:45