Monte Oliveto Maggiore Abbey
A historic Benedictine monastery in Tuscany, famed for its Renaissance frescoes and serene setting amidst the unique Crete Senesi landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Monte Oliveto Maggiore Abbey
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Benedictine monastery in Tuscany, famed for its Renaissance frescoes and serene setting amidst the unique Crete Senesi landscape.
"A wonder of artistic beauty and spiritual peace for the Benedictine monks."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the grounds and museum. :athletic_shoe:
Book Ahead for Tours
While not always available, audio guides are recommended. Check for guided tour availability. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Cloister Frescoes
Great Cloister
Marvel at the stunning 15th-century frescoes depicting the life of Saint Benedict, a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
Monastic Life and Spirituality
Abbey Church and Monastery
Experience the living history of this Benedictine monastery, where monks have resided for over 700 years.
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Crete Senesi Landscape
Surrounding Hills
Enjoy breathtaking views of the unique clay hills and cypress-lined roads of the Crete Senesi region.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Navigating the Abbey Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the grounds and museum. :athletic_shoe:
Book Ahead for Tours
While not always available, audio guides are recommended. Check for guided tour availability. :ticket:
Bring Insect Repellent
Essential for exploring the beautiful grounds, especially in warmer months. :bug:
Shop for Monk-Made Goods
Find unique souvenirs like rosaries and local products. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the grounds and museum. :athletic_shoe:
Book Ahead for Tours
While not always available, audio guides are recommended. Check for guided tour availability. :ticket:
Bring Insect Repellent
Essential for exploring the beautiful grounds, especially in warmer months. :bug:
Shop for Monk-Made Goods
Find unique souvenirs like rosaries and local products. :shopping_bags:
Check Lunch Hours
The abbey closes for lunch between 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Abbey's stunning beauty, both artistic and natural, highlighting the impressive frescoes and the unique Crete Senesi landscape. The peaceful atmosphere and the presence of a living monastic community are also frequently mentioned positives. Some note the remote location and the early morning bells as potential drawbacks, and advise planning around lunch closures.
"The place is beautiful and the monks are friendly/polite! We even saw a monk that looked like San Benedetto 😅 the exhibition and library were beautiful, but I'd skip the dessert at the bar near the draw bridge. The newer path on the right from the entrance is easier and a more direct way to the chapel and museum. I'd recommend to use insect repellent if you go around the grounds, which you should! The shop is nice and has things for all budget. I got a pretty wooden rosary in a wooden box."
Si Ying Ng
"Wow Fantastic! Highly recommend the visit, you will need at least 2 hours for a visit. Very well organized, gorgeous setting and scenery. Easy parking, wine tasting and monk made product for sale. And lets not forget the beautiful architecture and great history."
Kate G
"We booked 2 nights here through Monastery Stays. We chose this because it was one of the few monasteries between Siena and Val d'Orcia (both less than an hour). It is quite remote up in the mountains which you may find either fun or scary or both if you're driving. It is a very beautiful setting though. The room itself is nice with what seems like antique furniture (desk and closet), and an attached bathroom. The shower is a bit cramped, but we managed. There is no elevator so you have to go up a flight of stairs. One issue some might encounter is that the church bells go off at 6am and go continuously for nearly 5 minutes. It's very loud because it's right across the room. It was fine for us because we needed to be up early anyway. Breakfast is not served though they have vending machines on-site. Credit card payment was accepted here. There are specific check-in times though you can depart anytime by leaving your keys at the room door. English was a struggle but the brother in-charge was patient. A stay here gets you free entry at other areas at the monastery, though a big regret is that we didn't have time to explore. Hopefully we get another opportunity someday. The location is quite remote so you would have to go to another town if ever you need a supermarket or other services. There is a restaurant in the complex though. Arrival and parking note: you don't need to park at the pay parking facility. You can drive straight down the brick road to the lot dedicated to overnight guests."
Patrick Villacorta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Abbey is about 34 km from Siena. Driving is the most convenient way, offering scenic views of the Crete Senesi. Parking is available, with a dedicated lot for overnight guests if you're staying on-site.
Public transport options are limited. While buses may run to nearby towns like Asciano, a car is highly recommended for easy access to this remote location.
The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through the picturesque Crete Senesi. Follow signs for Asciano and then Monte Oliveto Maggiore.
Yes, there is a pay parking facility, but if you are staying overnight, you can drive directly to the lot designated for guests.
It's situated in a somewhat remote, mountainous area, which adds to its charm but means you'll need a car for amenities like supermarkets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church and grounds is generally free, but there may be fees for accessing the museum or specific exhibitions. Staying overnight grants free access to certain areas.
The Abbey has specific visiting hours and closes for lunch between approximately 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM. It's advisable to check the latest schedule before your visit.
Yes, the museum houses beautiful frescoes and art. Audio guides are available if guided tours are not offered.
Guided tours may not always be available. Audio guides are a good alternative for learning about the Abbey's history and art.
While the church and grounds are often free to enter, there might be a fee for the museum or specific exhibitions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To fully explore the buildings, gardens, and museum, plan for at least 2-3 hours. +1
Don't miss the stunning frescoes in the Great Cloister, the historic church, and the beautiful surrounding landscape of the Crete Senesi.
Photography rules can vary, especially within the church and museum. Be respectful of the monastic environment and check for any signage.
Yes, the shop offers monk-made products, including wine and a unique 23-herb digestive drink. +1
Visitors often describe it as a place of spiritual peace and artistic beauty, offering a serene escape from the modern world.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant within the complex, and vending machines are available for snacks.
The restaurant on-site offers dining options. For a wider variety, you might need to travel to nearby towns.
Yes, there is a restaurant, but be mindful of their lunch closure hours between 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM.
Chiusure is the nearby village, and you may find local trattorias or cafes there for dining options.
It's a traditional post-meal digestif made from a centuries-old recipe by the monks, available for purchase.
📸 📸 Photography
The Great Cloister with its frescoes, the Abbey church, and the panoramic views of the Crete Senesi from the surrounding hills are prime photography locations.
Drone usage may be restricted due to the Abbey's status as a religious site and its proximity to residential areas. Always check local regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon offers beautiful light for capturing the architecture and landscape, avoiding harsh midday sun.
The cypress-lined driveway leading to the Abbey and the sweeping views of the Tuscan countryside are iconic.
A wide-angle lens is useful for the cloisters and landscapes, while a telephoto can capture details of the frescoes. A drone offers unique aerial perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the visual aspects like the impressive architecture and the unique Crete Senesi landscape. The shop with monk-made products can also be a fun point of interest for kids. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options within the immediate vicinity might be limited.
⛪ Spiritual Seekers & Retreatants
+1Consider booking a stay at the monastery for an immersive retreat. This allows you to participate in the monastic rhythm, experience the quietude, and gain a deeper understanding of the Benedictine way of life. Be prepared for early morning bells and a simpler accommodation style.
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
+1Allocate ample time for the journey and for exploring the Abbey. The unique landscape offers fantastic photo opportunities, making it a memorable part of any Tuscan itinerary. Parking is available, and the Abbey's location makes it a great destination between Siena and the Val d'Orcia region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Masterpieces of Monte Oliveto Maggiore
Beyond the cloister, the Abbey Church itself is a treasure trove of art, featuring works by artists such as Il Sodoma. The library also holds valuable manuscripts, contributing to the Abbey's status as a cultural and spiritual center. Visitors often express awe at the sheer volume and quality of the art found within this historic complex.
Exploring these artistic wonders provides a deeper appreciation for the dedication and skill of the monks and artists who have contributed to the Abbey's legacy over centuries. It's a journey through both religious devotion and artistic excellence.
A Living Benedictine Community
+1Visitors often remark on the palpable sense of peace and spirituality that permeates the Abbey. The monks' dedication to their contemplative life is evident, and some visitors have even had brief, friendly interactions, noting their politeness.
For those seeking a deeper connection, staying overnight at the monastery offers a unique perspective. It allows for a more immersive experience of the monastic rhythm, including the early morning church bells, though this can be a startling wake-up call for some.
The Enchanting Crete Senesi Landscape
The approach to the Abbey, often via a road lined with iconic cypress trees, is a visual highlight in itself. Drone footage captures the sweeping vistas, showcasing the Abbey perched atop a hill overlooking this otherworldly terrain.
+1 The serene and somewhat wild beauty of the Crete Senesi is a significant part of the overall experience, offering a different perspective on Tuscany beyond its famous vineyards and olive groves. This region is perfect for scenic drives and photography, with numerous viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas. The contrast between the man-made beauty of the Abbey and the natural, rugged landscape is striking and memorable.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit