Page 14 - Italian-American Herald - April 2024

14 ITALIANAMERICANHERALD.COM | APRIL2024 HISTORY
From preceding page
legend that was brought to light by Wace, the Anglo-Saxon poet, was inspired by the round chapel of Montesiepi. It has also
been pointed out that the name Galgano is similar to Galvano or later Gawain who was the nephew of Arthur first mentioned in the story written in the 14th century. Let’s look at the evidence at hand regarding the existence of San Galgano and the authenticity of the sword believed to be his.
Current Evidence
There have been many speculations as
to whether the sword believed to be San Galgano’s is genuine. However, it wasn’t until 2001 that the priests of Montesiepi Chapel requested that the sword be tested. The investigation was led by Luigi Garlaschelli, a research scientist at the University of Pavia, and determined that the sword was dated to the 12th century, the period of San Galgano.
ITALIAN-AMERICANHERALD
Therefore, we can say with high certainty that the sword is not a fake.
The team of Garlaschelli also conducted radar analysis uncovering what is believed to be a small cavity beneath the sword and is thought to be a burial recess. Could this be the burial place of San Galgano’s body? To be certain further excavation would be needed but the church has not yet granted permission.
What we can say without a doubt is that San Galgano did exist and that the sword is from his era as well as the strong connection to the Arthurian tales. However, whether San Galgano is the real King Arthur remains a mystery and one that may never be solved. The combination of folklore and real facts presented unveils Italy’s version of King Arthur and brings to light what has been concealed for many years to the public. IAH
In 2001 the priests of Montesiepi Chapel requested that the sword be tested. It was determined that the sword dated to the 12th century.
The sword in the stone is believed to be that of San Galgano. It is located at Montesiepi Chapel in the village of Chiusdino in the province of Siena. | ISTOCK PHOTO
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