Abbey Monte Oliveto Maggiore

Abbey Monte Oliveto Maggiore is located on the edge of the charming village of Chiusure. The Abbey itself was founded in 1313 and fully restored in the 19th century. The secret however is in the grand cloister and the beauty of the frescoes is truly what makes this place special. Depicting the Life of St Benedict, they were painted by Luca Signorelli and Il Sodoma between 1497 and 1505 and are considered to be one of the masterpieces of the Renaissance. 

Lunch is served at the vegetarian restaurant at the entrance to the abbey and the is also a shop where they sell the products the monks produce. The abbey is still in use by the silent monks, dressed in white robes who live here. To give the monks some privacy during the day, the abbey is closed between 12:00 -3:00pm

Guest (religious or non-religious) are also more then welcome to attend the religious services; Mass on Sundays is in Gregorian Chant, which is a very unusual experience. Plan Your Visit to the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore. 

Opening hours: The Abbey is open to visits in winter time from 9.15 to 12.00 am and from 3.15 to 5.00 pm and summer time from 9.00 to 12.00 am and from 3.00 to 6.00 pm. On Sundays mornings opening until 12.30 pm. Free entry. 

Monte Oliveto Maggiore -53041 Asciano SI Tel +39 0577 707611 http://www.monteolivetomaggiore.italia