Church of San Pietro Apostolo: Hidden treasures of Giglio Castello

The Church of San Pietro Apostolo: The Secret Heart of Giglio Castello

Dear friends and explorers of authentic Tuscany, today I am taking you well off the beaten path, to an island where time seems to have stood still. Far from the hustle and bustle of the cities, a little gem of history and faith nestles: the’Church of San Pietro Apostolo, in the heart of the magnificent fortified village of Giglio Castello on the’Isola del Giglio. Forget the crowds, get ready for a total immersion in a place that breathes the Tuscan soul, or rather, the Giglio soul!

A Journey Through Time: The History of a Thousand-Year-Old Pieve

Whenever I walk through the gates of Giglio Castello, I am always struck by that very special medieval atmosphere. And the church is its heartbeat. Far from the image of a simple village church, San Pietro Apostolo is a true guardian of the past. Its foundation dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries, and it is already mentioned as the «pieve» (main parish church) of the Diocese of Sovana as early as 1296. Just imagine the centuries of prayers and stories that have soaked into these walls!

Its current appearance, with its Baroque charms, is the result of a major restructuring completed in 1755. Inside, you will discover a vaulted ceiling, two entrances and a monumental high altar, flanked by five side altars housed in small chapels. Every nook and cranny whispers tales of bygone eras, a true history book in the open air... or rather, indoors!

The Unexpected Treasures of San Pietro Apostolo

But what makes this church so special are the treasures it houses. Far from crowded museums, San Pietro Apostolo offers an intimate encounter with works of art and relics of priceless value. It is as if the village had decided to keep its most beautiful secrets for those who take the time to discover them.

• The Ivory Crucifix attributed to Giambologna: This is the centerpiece, the one that moved me the most. Dating from the 16th century, this crucifix of incredible finesse is attributed to the famous Flemish sculptor Giambologna (Jean de Boulogne), who was very active in Florence. Or at least, it is the work of a Northern artist of his caliber. The idea of discovering such a work in this discreet place is simply fascinating. This crucifix has even traveled to be exhibited in major exhibitions, testifying to its artistic recognition. It returned to the Castello in 2014, after a loan, under escort and with palpable emotion from the residents.
• The Treasure of Pope Innocent XIII: The church also preserves sacred objects from the private chapel of Pope Innocent XIII. These precious gifts were made by his secretary, Monsignor Olimpio Miliani (a native of Giglio), who offered them to the church in 1725. A direct link with the Vatican, nestled on a small Tuscan island!
• The Reliquary of Saint Mamiliano: Another item of great importance is the reliquary containing the ulna (an arm bone) of Saint Mamiliano, the patron saint of the island. His cult is celebrated with fervor on September 15. It is a living part of local devotion, a tradition that endures through the ages.
• Pieces of History and Art: You will also see reliquaries of Popes Urban I and VIII, the church cross, two columns brought from the ancient Roman villa of Giannutri (the neighboring island!), two magnificent paintings by the painter Nasini, and even weapons left by the pirates during the last assault on the island in 1799. Each object tells a piece of the island's tumultuous history.

Practical Information for Your Visit

The Church of San Pietro Apostolo is located in the heart of the medieval village of Giglio Castello, at the end of Via Roma, on the left. It is a place that must be earned, as access to the Castello is via a narrow, winding road from Giglio Porto, the port where the ferries arrive. But believe me, the effort is well worth it! For a complete experience of the island, don't hesitate to explore the beaches and coves surrounding area, such as the Caletta del Saraceno.

• Address: Via delle Mura, 27, Giglio Castello 58012 Isola del Giglio (GR)
• Contact: You can contact the parish at +39 0564 806080 or +39 340 8316877, or by email at parrocchia.gigliocastello@gmail.com.
• Opening hours: The opening hours of the church and mass times may vary. It is always best to check on site or contact the parish, especially outside the summer season. In general, masses are celebrated:
  • Summer schedule: Ask directly at the parish or on site.
  • Winter schedule: Mass times at Giglio Castello are generally posted at the entrance to the church.
• Tip: Plan on good shoes to explore the cobbled alleys of Giglio Castello. Access to the church is easy once in the village, but the charm also lies in the walk leading there. If you plan to rent a car for your stay in Tuscany, make sure you fully understand the specifics of driving in Italy, notably the ZTL and parking.

Visiting the Church of San Pietro Apostolo is not just about discovering a monument, it is immersing yourself in the soul of the’Isola del Giglio. It is an experience that nourishes the spirit, where art, history and spirituality meet in perfect harmony. It is a place that, I am sure, will remain engraved in your memories of Hidden Tuscany.