Come and discover places from other times
The city of Subiaco, with its monasteries and medieval alleys, is a haven of architecture and history. Find out what to visit near the Foresteria.
Monastery of Saint Scholastica
The Monastery of Santa Scolastica, a hidden jewel in the heart of Italy, is a place of peace and spirituality, immersed in the greenery of the mountains. Founded by Saint Benedict of Nursia around 520 AD, the Monastery of Saint Scholastica is the oldest Benedictine monastery in the world.
Over the centuries, the monastery has welcomed monks and pilgrims seeking silence and prayer. Located at 510 meters above sea level, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley below.
Inside the monastery you will find the Abbey Church, the ancient Library with the archive and the 3 Cloisters (Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance). The architecture of the monastery is a fascinating mix of Romanesque, Gothic and neoclassical styles.
It is possible to participate in the scheduled Holy Masses.
Sanctuary of the Sacro Speco
The Monastery of San Benedetto, set in a rock wall, guards the cave in which the young Benedetto da Norcia spent 3 years of hermit life, before dedicating himself to the cenobitic life.
The structure of the monastery is a fascinating mix of architecture and nature, the result of continuous modifications that have taken place over the course of a thousand years of history. Inside, you can admire the frescoes of the Sienese School (14th century), the Umbrian Marche School (14th century) and the Roman School (13th century)
Among these, the oldest existing portrait of Saint Francis of Assisi, who arrived here in 1223, stands out.
It is possible to participate in the scheduled Holy Masses.
The village of Subiaco
The Abbey Fortress
Subiaco has around 9000 inhabitants and is located on a spur of limestone rock. This early medieval village is dominated by the imposing Abbey Fortress and immersed in an area rich in both historical-artistic and naturalistic attractions.
The small lake of San Benedetto
The San Benedetto Lake located in the valley below the Monastery of Santa Scolastica, with its turquoise waters, offers a unique experience of tranquility and beauty, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Bridge of San Francesco
The Bridge of San Francesco is an architectural jewel from 1358, built by Abbot Ademaro.
This humpback bridge, entirely built in goldfinch, is characterized by a guard tower on one side.
It is difficult to find such a harmonious and well-preserved medieval architectural work.
The bridge is pedestrian and is always open. You can enjoy moments of relaxation on a bench or a wall along the banks.
Nero's Villa
The villa, commissioned by Emperor Nero in 60 AD, was a huge and vast complex, characterized by three artificial lakes, the Simbruina Stagna, created specifically by means of as many dams on the river.
Despite its grandeur, only a few remains of Nero’s Villa remain today. Among the most notable ruins, we find a part of its baths and a nymphaeum, which San Benedetto da Norcia transformed into the apse of the first monastery he founded: the oratory of San Clemente.
Contacts and Locations
We are located in Subiaco, in the province of Rome, a few steps from the complex of the Monasteries of Santa Scolastica and the Sacro Speco.
How to reach us:
- From Rome: Take the A24 motorway, exit at Mandela, then follow the SS5 Tiburtina-Valeria until the junction with Arsoli. From here the Via Sublacense begins.
- From Naples: Take the A1 motorway, exit at Anagni, then follow the crossroads for Piglio-Altipiani di Arcinazzo or Fiuggi-Altipiani di Arcinazzo and continue towards Subiaco.
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