Cypress forest, San Quirico d’Orcia

If cypresses are one of the symbols of Tuscany, the “cypresses” of San Quirico d’Orcia are certainly the most photographed in the world.

After passing the village going towards Torrenieri, right in the middle of the hill stands this small grouping of cypresses that seems painted. The advice is to park along the road where there is a small rest area on both sides of the carriageway.

Among the most loved and iconic places by photographers in the Val d’Orcia and Tuscany, it is a must on your tour of the Val d’Orcia. One thing that not everyone knows is that there are two cypress groves in San Quirico d’Orcia: the lower one (the most famous and photographed) and the one located higher up, at the top of the hill. The latter, unlike the other, can be reached either on foot from the main road or along a secondary dirt road. Once you get to the top, you can literally enter the famous circle of cypresses.

Cypress forest, San Quirico d’Orcia

The cypress, present throughout the area, is an ancient plant that owes its name to the myth of Cyparissus, a young man loved by the god Apollo.

The group of cypresses, in the middle of the bare hills of San Quirico d’Orcia, has suggested all sorts of legends and rumors even if its history is linked to the hunting “roccolo”, or a grove created by hunters to attract birds. This image evokes an unspoiled countryside, ancient traditions, tranquility and beauty.

Let yourself be surrounded by the most famous cypress trees in the world and enjoy the priceless view of the Val d’Orcia!