Built during the Middle Ages and completely renovated in the 18th century, this church is dedicated to San Cosimo and is home to some splendid works of art, including the 14th century statue Madonna con il Bambino by Giovanni d’Agostino.

This statue comes with its own strange story. In need of desperate restoration at the beginning of the 19th century, the statue was handed to a local artist who restored it to its original splendor.

The parish priest was so happy to have his statue back that he threw a huge party to celebrate. During the festival, one keen observer noticed that the statue was restored too well…it was a fake.

The town was thrown into a deep sadness as the statue was their most prized possession. Luckily, the original was recovered in 1935 and now each year they hold a solemn process through Gavarrano with it in memory of that tragic event.

The church itself has a history almost as rich as its works of art. The original medieval structure was first mentioned in a papal bull dated 1188, when it was within the borders of the diocese of Grosseto. It then became an autonomous church in Rationes Decimarum of the late 13th and early 14th century and was dedicated to St. Gusmé.

Inside, pillars divide the church into three naves with two side altars in 18th century stucco. As well as that fascinating statue, there’s also a  17th century Madonna Buonconsiglio displayed in a lovely 19th century wooden frame. There’s also a 16th century piece called Annunciazione, which is also very stirring.