# Castello della Magione

- **Country:** Italy
- **Coordinates:** 43.456950, 11.158536
- **Location Text:** Poggibonsi

Castello della Magione, also known as Magione di San Giovanni al Ponte, is a historic medieval complex located in Poggibonsi within the province of Siena, central Italy. Dating back to the 11th century, this site originally served as a vital Mansio, or residence, for the Knights Templar along the famous Via Francigena pilgrimage route. Strategically positioned near the ancient crossing of the Staggia River, the castle provided essential lodging and spiritual care for pilgrims traveling to Rome. The structure features a trapezoidal layout that follows the river's course and includes a convent, guest rooms, and the Magistral Church of San Giovanni in Jerusalem. Architecturally, the complex retains significant Romanesque elements, particularly within the church, which displays distinct Burgundian-Cistercian influences in its vault construction despite modifications made over subsequent centuries.

The historical trajectory of the castle reflects major shifts in religious military orders. Initially donated to monks in 1140 before being entrusted to the Templars, the property was transferred to the Knights Hospitaller in 1312 following the suppression of the Templar Order by Pope Clement V. Over time, the site was downgraded to a farm and passed through various private owners, including the Princes Corsini. In 1979, Count Marcello Alberto Cristofani della Magione acquired the estate and donated it to the newly founded Militia Templi, a Roman Catholic association of the faithful. This donation established the castle as the order's Magistral See, prompting extensive restoration efforts to revive the entire complex. Today, Castello della Magione stands as a preserved monument to medieval chivalry and religious devotion, actively serving as the headquarters for its current custodians while maintaining its ancient character.

![Photo of Castello della Magione](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/42/Militia_castello.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castello_della_Magione (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)