UNESCO Landscape · Between Pienza & San Quirico d'Orcia
Cappella di Vitaleta
A chapel among cypresses in the hills of San Quirico
The Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta stands between Pienza and San Quirico d’Orcia, in the UNESCO-listed landscape of the Val d’Orcia. The cypresses beside the small building and the surrounding fields make it a stop for visitors exploring the valley’s rural landscape.
History
The Madonna of Vitaleta and the nineteenth-century restoration
A statue of the Virgin by Andrea della Robbia was placed in the chapel in 1553. It is now kept in the church of the Madonna di Vitaleta in central San Quirico d’Orcia. The chapel’s present appearance comes from its nineteenth-century restoration and redesign by Giuseppe Partini. Respect private property and access instructions.
How to Visit
Getting There
From the SP146 between Pienza and San Quirico, follow the signposted turn for Vitaleta to permitted parking areas, then continue on foot as directed on site. Do not leave your car on the provincial road. The gravel surface can be muddy after rain. Before visiting, check the official closure calendar and confirm opening times and services directly with the refreshment venue.
Photography
Photographing the chapel
Notice how the light on the chapel and cypresses changes throughout the day. Field colours and visibility depend on the season, crops and weather: mist and golden wheat are not guaranteed. Take photographs from permitted paths without entering fields or crossing fences, and respect access hours.
Practical Information
- Location
- Between Pienza and San Quirico d’Orcia; signposted turn from the SP146
- Access
- Park only in permitted areas and continue on foot as directed. Check official closures.
- Plan your visit
- Check your route, permitted parking and opening times before leaving; journey times depend on your starting point and local conditions.
- Official source
- Information and contacts
Gallery
Plan the whole valley
Build this stop into your itinerary
See how to combine Pienza, the Gladiator locations, villages, thermal sites and abbeys without rushing.