Abbey of St Maria del Monte 🇮🇹

You will discover the Abbey of Santa Maria del Monte standing atop Colle Spaziano in Cesena, Italy. Founded around 1001, this imposing Benedictine monastery carries a rich history tied to Saint Mauro, a former bishop who once climbed this very hill to pray. As you explore, you are stepping into a landmark shaped by historical turmoil and royal guests, including Emperor Frederic Barbarossa who stayed here in 1177.

The church assumed its present-day appearance between 1536 and 1548 through designs inspired by Bramante, while surviving later conflicts, bombings, and an earthquake. Inside, you can admire notable regional artwork by Scipione Sacco and Girolamo Longhi, an exquisite wooden choir finished in 1575 by Giuseppe d’Alberto di Scalva, and a dramatic stone staircase built by Francesco Morandi. Look for the monumental well crafted in 1588 by Alessandro Corsi inside the Great Cloister.

Do not miss one of Europe’s richest collections of ex-voto votive tables, spanning over five centuries of devotion, including an offering left by Pope John Paul II during his 1986 visit. Today, the active abbey even houses an operating workshop dedicated to restoring antique books.

What to see at Abbey of St Maria del Monte

• Collection of ex-voto votive tables dating back over five centuries
• Wooden choir completed in 1575 by Giuseppe d’Alberto di Scalva
• Great Cloister featuring a 1588 monumental well by Alessandro Corsi
• Reconstructed dome decorated by artist Giuseppe Milani
• Active workshop for antique book restoration

Visiting tips

Take time to view the expansive collection of historical ex-voto tables, including the custom piece left by Pope John Paul II in 1986.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Abbey of St Maria del Monte is easy to reach on Cesena’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Biblioteca Malatestiana and Cesena Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Cesena travel guide.