We humans often tend to fight against the passage of time, striving in every way to resist it. We wish we could stop it, crystallize it, to preserve everything at its peak, in its finest hour. But in this pursuit of immortality, we risk forgetting that it is precisely the passage of time that gives objects, places, and relationships an aura of authenticity and solemnity; it is the marks of time that allow stories to be told. The beauty of the wedding we are telling you about today lies precisely in this: in a place that guards and proudly displays the centuries and events that have passed through its walls, now reduced to ruins, but charged with a charm that only time can bestow: the Abbey of San Galgano.
This unique location, so evocative that it has been chosen as a setting for introspective films like Nostalghia by Andrei Tarkovsky and The English Patient by Anthony Minghella, no longer retains its original splendor. However, it is its Gothic and decadent charm that makes it extraordinary and evokes a sense of eternity. Here, Emily and Daniel chose to celebrate their love, in a setting that carries with it a promise of love that will defy the passage of time. The seemingly empty abbey was filled with their affection and that of their loved ones, who came from the other side of the world to celebrate with them. Just as cinema has been able to enhance this place by turning it into a setting for insightful stories, we have done the same, capturing the very core of this special moment in Emily and Daniel’s wedding video.
Tuscany: The Essence of Love in a Land of Eternal Charm
Tuscany, long known as one of the most enchanting regions of Italy, captivates with its extraordinary variety of landscapes, history, and culture. From the Chianti hills covered in vineyards to the golden beaches of the Maremma, every corner of this region offers a different shade of paradise. The air is soft and the wind blows gently, while the light of the sunset caresses the stone facades of noble villas and castles.
Here, time flows slowly, inviting one to savor the genuine pleasures of life: a glass of Brunello while contemplating the horizon, a stroll through the labyrinthine streets of San Gimignano, or a picnic in the shade of ancient olive trees. But Tuscany is not just a delight for all of our five senses; it is the cradle of the Renaissance, the birthplace of world-renowned figures from Dante Alighieri to Andrea Bocelli. Art and culture permeate every aspect of daily life, from the masterpieces housed in the Uffizi to the artisanal knowledge passed down through generations in Florence’s workshops.
Working with wedding videography we often visit this region, and we know very well that couples from all around the world choose it for these and many other reasons. For those seeking to fulfill their love dreams, Tuscany offers unparalleled beauty: whether among the Chianti vineyards, in the Renaissance squares of Siena, or with the breathtaking backdrop of the Apuan Alps, each location becomes the perfect setting to write one of the most important chapters of one’s love story. In this magical land, where beauty becomes tangible, every shot turns into an indelible memory, and love finds its natural stage.
The Charming Siena: History, Culture, and Traditions
Siena is a medieval jewel in the center of Tuscany. It’s a city with a millennia-old history that still preserves its traditions today. Nestled on the gentle Tuscan hills Siena, with its distinctive Gothic architecture, seems to have frozen time in the 13th century, when it reached the height of its splendor. Amid its cobblestone streets, imposing palaces, and lively squares, the echoes of a powerful and proud Republic can still be heard. The heart of the city is the iconic Piazza del Campo, with its shell-shaped layout and the majestic Torre del Mangia rising towards the sky.
Twice a year, the legendary Palio takes place here: a horse race that ignites the passion of the Sienese and captivates visitors from around the world, recently deemed by the Washington Post to be even better than the Olympics. But Siena is much more than this: it is a place where art, culture, and tradition blend together like ingredients in a delicious recipe, each standing out while harmonizing with the others. The Duomo, with its black-and-white marble facade, is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture.
The contrade, each with its own colors and symbols, keep alive the community spirit that has characterized the city for centuries. Its narrow, winding streets hide artisan shops, wine bars, and restaurants where tourists can savor local specialties such as pici, panforte, and ricciarelli. This magical city, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995, with its timeless charm and romantic atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate love and start a new life together, creating unforgettable memories in a setting of unparalleled beauty.
San Galgano: From the Sword in the Stone to the Allure of the Ruins
The Abbey of San Galgano, an ancient Cistercian abbey located in Tuscany, in the province of Siena, is one of Italy’s most enchanting and evocative abbeys and it’s one of the most beautiful places to get married in Tuscany. Founded in 1218 by Cistercian monks, an order known for its moral rigor and manual labor, the abbey complex included a large Latin-cross church, a cloister, a dormitory, a chapter house, and other monastic structures. At its peak, the abbey was an important religious and cultural center, but over the centuries, it began a slow decline. In the 15th century, the abbey faced various problems including famines, raids, and looting, and by the end of the century, the monks abandoned the site. In the 16th century, it was definitively deconsecrated and fell into ruin.
The Abbey of San Galgano is an extraordinary example of Italian Gothic architecture. The church, now roofless, features an impressive central nave with large arches and columns reaching towards the sky. Not far from the abbey stands the Chapel of Montesiepi, a circular building dating back to 1185. Inside the chapel, a sword embedded in a rock is traditionally linked to the figure of San Galgano. According to legend, Galgano Guidotti, a knight born in Chiusdino in 1148, abandoned his worldly life to devote himself to God. As a gesture of renunciation of violence and his cavalier lifestyle, he thrust his sword into a rock, symbolically transforming it into a cross.
The sword in the rock is of great interest to both tourists and scholars and is considered a possible inspiration for the Arthurian legend of the sword in the stone. The Abbey of San Galgano remains one of Tuscany’s most captivating locations, evoking the spirituality and mystery of the Middle Ages. The lack of a roof and the vegetation growing inside give the site a mystical and surreal atmosphere, making it unique in its kind. The abbey is often used as a setting for weddings, cultural events, concerts, and performances, thanks to its unique acoustics and suggestive ambiance.
Villa Pordenovo and the True Essence of Tuscany
Emily and Daniel celebrated their union and love at Villa Pordenovo, a historic estate located near Siena in a picturesque hilly landscape that perfectly embodies the beauty of the Tuscan countryside. Its proximity to the Abbey of San Galgano – just 7 km away – makes it a strategic location for couples who choose to marry there and then move to a venue for their wedding reception. Villa Pordenovo’s history dates back several centuries when it was built as a country residence for a noble family of the area. Like many Tuscan villas, it served not only as a summer retreat for the family but also as a center for agricultural activities, particularly the production of wine and olive oil.
The extensive olive groves and vineyards surrounding the villa are still cultivated today, producing high-quality olive oil and wine that characterize the property. The villa is a perfect example of traditional Tuscan architecture: the main structure is imposing yet elegant, with stone and brick facades typical of the region’s villas. Inside, the spaces are spacious and tastefully decorated, maintaining a rustic yet refined style. Wooden beam ceilings, terracotta floors, and large stone fireplaces create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The main salons are bright and airy, with large windows overlooking the gardens and surrounding countryside. The bedrooms, also spacious, are furnished with period furniture and fine fabrics, offering a refined and comfortable stay. Outside, the villa features a vast Italian garden with paths winding through flower beds, ancient trees, and statues. With all this concentrated Tuscan beauty, Villa Pordenovo was the ideal setting for Emily and Daniel’s wedding and the perfect backdrop for their wedding video!
Emily and Daniel’s Wedding at Villa Pordenovo
The big day for Emily and Daniel began with the sunrise casting a rosy glow over Villa Pordenovo, where the couple was preparing. Emily, in her room, was surrounded by a soft, enveloping light that illuminated her face and outlined her features. Her mother helped her into her refined and elegant wedding dress, which spoke volumes in its simplicity. The first “first look” – the moment when the bride is finally seen fully dressed – was with her father. When he saw her, time seemed to stand still: his eyes filled with tears of joy and pride as he embraced his little girl, now a beautiful bride. The spouses and their guests then made their way to the Abbey of San Galgano.
The guests were an intimate group of family and friends, and they had crossed the ocean to be there for them! As Emily walked down the aisle, the delicate notes of a harp and violin blended with the ruins of the church, accompanying her journey to the altar. When Emily and Daniel were pronounced husband and wife, a spontaneous applause echoed through the solemn high walls of the abbey. After the ceremony, they enjoyed private moments inside the church, exploring its hidden corners hand in hand, while photographer Krista and we, the videographers, captured their first moments as a married couple in this evocative setting. These unique shots, thanks to the special location, are certainly one of the most beautiful parts of their wedding video.
The dinner took place at sunset at Villa Pordenovo, where guests enjoyed typical Tuscan and locally sourced products: extra virgin olive oil and fine wines produced directly on the estate accompanied each course, offering an authentic and unforgettable gastronomic experience. The party continued late into the night, filled with laughter, dancing, and the joy of two families coming together. Surrounded by the love of their nearest and dearest and the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, Emily and Daniel began their journey together, carrying with them the memory of a perfect day, imbued with emotions and promises of eternal love.
Read also: Wedding in Abbey of Saint Galgano: A Magic Place in Chiusdino
A Visual Story That Celebrates Your Love
As wedding videographers, we are deeply aware of the pivotal role we play in making your most important day unforgettable. Our mission is to capture the most meaningful moments of your union, creating a visual document that you will treasure for years to come, and watch over and over again with your loved ones. While you focus on fully enjoying every moment of the celebration, surrounded by family, friends, and the unique atmosphere, we are dedicated to capturing every nuance of this extraordinary event. Our experience and technical expertise allow us to craft a visual narrative that captures the essence of your love story.
We know how to move discreetly, capturing fleeting expressions, spontaneous gestures, and precious details without ever interfering with the natural flow of the day. These single, precious moments will be transformed into a compelling and emotional film, a small movie where you and your love are the protagonists, reflecting your personality and the unique spirit of your wedding, from the emotion of the preparations to the joy of the final dances. We are committed to deeply understanding your desires and expectations, ensuring that the final result is a true celebration of your love. Don’t let the most precious moments of your life fade over time: trust us to turn them into a lasting treasure. Our professionalism allows us to coordinate effectively with other professionals present at the event, such as photographers and planners, to create a synergy that translates into a harmonious and complete final result.
Read also: Capturing Every Moment: The Benefits of Hiring a Second Shooter for Your Wedding Video
