Official tourism site of the municipality of Castiglione della Pescaia
A precious remnant in the heart of the medieval village
Created from a space of military origin built in the Middle Ages to store weapons and artillery, the Church of San Giovanni Battista, also known as the “chiesona”, is located in the town’s medieval historic centre, against the main section of the city walls. Its construction dates back to the 16th century.
The entrance portal features an early medieval bas-relief depicting evangelical symbols, while the trussed roof rests directly on the ledge of the walls.
The bell tower was built in the early 20th century, from a project by Lorenzo Porciatti, in a neo-Gothic style with references to Moorish architecture.
In addition to a precious silver reliquary from the 17th century, the Church of San Giovanni Battista houses relics (parts of the arms and legs) of the city’s patron saint, Guglielmo of Aquitaine, who is also known as “Guglielmo of Maleval”.
Lost between history and legend, the saint’s origins are still uncertain in many aspects. According to his first biography, written by his disciple Albert, Guglielmo was a knight belonging to a noble lineage of Aquitaine, excommunicated by the Pope for profligate and sinful conduct. Seized by remorse, he then gave himself over to a life of corporal penance.
Following a meeting with St. Bernard of Clairvaux, which marks his actual conversion, San Guglielmo withdrew to an eremitical life and subjected himself to further harsh penance.
“His bare flesh was covered with an iron breastplate and his limbs wrapped in chains over a garment of sackcloth” (Alberto).
What we know for sure is that Guglielmo died, due to the severity of his fasting, on 10 February 1157 in Malavalle, where legend has it that he killed the dragon that raged in the surrounding forest.
Church of San Giovanni Battista
- Via Giulianelli, 3
58043 Castiglione della Pescaia (GR)
