Background

Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore: A Timeless Oasis of Art and Spirituality

Discover Renaissance art and Gregorian chants at this tranquil Benedictine abbey in the unique landscape of the Crete Senesi near Siena.

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Nestled in the stark landscape of the Crete Senesi, the Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore is a Benedictine monastery founded in 1313. It's renowned for its stunning Renaissance frescoes by Luca Signorelli and Il Sodoma, its tranquil atmosphere, and the Gregorian chants performed by the monks.

A brief summary to Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore

  • Monday 9:30 am-12:40 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-12:40 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-12:40 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-12:40 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-12:40 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-12:40 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-12:40 pm

Local tips

  • Check the abbey's website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they vary seasonally.
  • Consider attending a sung mass to experience the Gregorian chants performed by the Olivetan monks.
  • Sample and purchase the abbey's own wine, honey, and olive oil from their shop.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the abbey.
  • Photography is permitted inside the Abbazia, but without flash, to preserve the frescoes and paintings.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore is accessible by car via the SP451, branching off from the SR2 Cassia. Parking is available near the abbey. From the parking area, enter the abbey complex on foot. Parking is available for cars and motorbikes. There are two fully automated parking areas with remote video surveillance. Expect to pay for parking. There is also parking available for campers.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus stop is in Chiusure, a frazione of Asciano. Bus line 109 stops in Chiusure. From Chiusure, it is approximately a 2-kilometer walk to the Abbazia. Bus tickets cost a few euros.

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Discover more about Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore

The Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore, located about 36 kilometers south of Siena, offers a serene escape into art, history, and spirituality. Founded in 1313 by Bernardo Tolomei, the abbey stands as the motherhouse of the Olivetan Benedictine order. The abbey's red brick buildings create a striking contrast against the grey clay hills of the Crete Senesi. Visitors enter through a fortified medieval gate, complete with a drawbridge, leading to a cypress-lined avenue. This path leads to the abbey complex, which includes a church, cloisters, a refectory, and a library. The Great Cloister is adorned with frescoes depicting the life of St. Benedict, a masterpiece of Renaissance art by Luca Signorelli and Il Sodoma. The church houses an elaborately carved wooden choir and other significant artworks. Today, the monks continue their Benedictine traditions, balancing prayer and work, including the production of wine, honey, and olive oil. Visitors can attend mass and experience the beauty of Gregorian chant. The abbey also features a wine cellar and shop where visitors can purchase the monks' products.

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