Capannoli, Sanctuary of the SS Annunziata

Just outside the village of Capannoli is an interesting architectural complex dating back to the 15th century. The church is preceded by an elegant Florentine-style loggia, built to shelter the faithful from the rain during celebrations in honour of the SS Annunziata. The building was renovated in 1714 by the Pisan architect Melani with elements of the Baroque tradition. The single-nave interior has numerous gravestones and tombstones in stone and marble distributed along the walls, mostly belonging to the noble Baciocchi and Orlandini families. The high altar in polychrome wood is particularly valuable for the richness of its carving and displays two wooden statues depicting the Annunciation, which date back to the 14th century as they are dressed in clothing from that period. The one depicting the Madonna was later crowned with a jewel (the work of Florentine goldsmiths) and inlaid with stones. A canvas considered miraculous depicting the Santissima Annunziata is also valuable. The complex also includes the 1837 Pisan-style bell tower, a farmhouse and a 19th-century cemetery with numerous chapels belonging to noble families