Vallombrosa Abbey

Steeped in a rich history and surrounded by the stunning Forest of Vallombrosa, which monks have cultivated over centuries, stands the Vallombrosa Abbey. This forest was declared a Natural Biogenetic Reserve in 1973, echoing the sanctuary's enduring commitment to natural preservation.

In 1008, Giovanni Gualberto, a Florentine nobleman who had recently become a monk, departed from the San Miniato Monastery in Florence. He sought a more isolated place for spiritual reflection. Following a meeting with Saint Romuald, the founder of the Camaldoli hermitage, he arrived at a place known as "Acquabella," where a small hermitage already stood. It was here that the Vallombrosa Monastery eventually took root, with wooden cells built for the new followers who joined Gualberto.

By 1015, the monks elected Gualberto as their superior, birthing the new Vallombrosan congregation. They adhered to the rule of St. Benedict, based on the precept "ora et labora" - pray and work. In 1036, construction began on the stone cells and oratory. The monastery underwent significant expansions around 1450, which led to the construction of the new sacristy and the novitiate premises. By the end of the 15th century, the complex took on its current characteristics and appearance.

In the 17th century, a wall was erected enclosing the square, and by the end of the 18th century, a large basin was built in front of the Abbey, used for rearing trout and ice production. After a period of suppression during the Napoleonic era, the monastery was reopened in 1817 by Grand Duke Ferdinand. It was only in 1949 that the Benedictines were allowed to return after being evicted by the newly formed Kingdom of Italy in 1866.

Today, the Vallombrosa Abbey, with its imposing structure dominated by a tall 13th-century bell tower, stands like a castle amidst nature. The entrance reveals the beautiful 17th-century facade designed by Gherardo Silvani, while the church's exterior, also from the 17th century, preserves a medieval layout despite its current Baroque features.

The Abbey houses numerous works of art, including a Robbian bas-relief in the vestibule overlooking the refectory, fifteen canvases by Ignazio Hugford in the refectory, and a wooden choir carved and inlaid by Francesco da Poggibonsi.

Near the Abbey, within the forest, you will find chapels and tabernacles dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, at the most sacred sites linked to miraculous events in Gualberto's life. These paths leading to these small religious buildings offer visitors abundant opportunities for reflection.

Situated just across from the La Foresta Refuge, visitors can easily access Vallombrosa Abbey, and guided tours can be arranged for a more enriching experience.

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VISITS ABBEY OF VALLOMBROSA

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GROUPS

by reservation only, phone: (+39) 055.86.22.51

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INDIVIDUAL

From September to June:

On Sunday at 12.00 noon or by reservation.

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July and August:

• Tuesday at 10.30 am
• Friday at 10.30 am
• Saturday at 12.00 noon and at 3.00 pm

The meeting point is the courtyard outside the church.

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TIMETABLE MASSES IN ABBEY

From September to June:

• Saturday at 4.30 pm
• Sunday at 11.00 am and at 5.00 pm

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July and August:

• From Monday to Friday at 10 am
• Saturday at 5.00 pm
• Sunday at 9.30 am - 11.00 am - 5.00 pm - 6.00 pm

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