Monte Oliveto Maggiore

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, on the principle of "ora et labora" ("pray and work"). In 1319 the monks received episcopal approval and in 1344 papal authority for the establishment of their Order. The abbey soon developed into a flourishing community, was several times enlarged and became a center of spiritual and cultural life.

Abbey

The abbey precincts are entered through a fortress-like gate tower built from 1393 onwards, with notable terracotta reliefs of the school of Luca della Robbia. The conventual buildings, in brick, were erected in stages between 1387 and 1514, with some later restoration. The imposing church (early 15th century; remodeled in Baroque style) has beautiful choir-stalls.