Monte Oliveto Maggiore

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Monte Oliveto Maggiore Description

A very interesting excursion from Siena is to the large monastery of Monte Oliveto Maggiore (273m/901ft). One of the most renowned monasteries of the Olivetans (a branch of the Benedictines), it was founded in 1313 by Bernardo Tolomei.

The Abbazía di Monte Oliveto Maggiore, seat of the Abbot-General of the Olivetans, an independent branch of the Benedictine Order, lies some 30km/20mi southeast of Siena, off the road from Asciano to Buonconvento. To the north extends the lunar landscape of the Crete.

History

The abbey was founded by a teacher of law, Bernardo Tolomei, who withdrew to this remote site with two friends in 1313 to lead an ascetic life in accordance with a strict interpretation of the Rule of St Benedict,

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Hobbies & Activities category: Christian sites

Monte Oliveto Maggiore Highlights

Buonconvento

The little town of Buonconvento was established in the 14th century on the site of the Roman Fort of Percanna on the Via Cassia, and is surrounded by the 14th century walls of Sienese type. It has

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Frescoes

On all four sides of the great cloister of the monastery of Monte Oliveto Maggiore are frescoes of outstanding quality. The cycle consists of 35 scenes from the life of St Benedict of Nursia (c

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Address

Monte Oliveto Maggiore
I-53020 Siena
Italy

http://www.monteolivetomaggiore.it