Visit to Abbeys of Chiaravalle and Santa Maria in Calvenzano

Lombardy is a region rich in history, culture and natural beauty, but maybe not everyone knows that.

Even within a few kilometers of the city of Milan, one can find hidden treasures that are absolutely worth exploring such as: the abbeys of Chiaravalle and Santa Maria in Calvenzano.

These ancient monastic complexes offer a fascinating window into the past and a rejuvenating tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Abbey of Chiaravalle

Chiaravalle Abbey is located just ten kilometers southeast of Milan, and is an ancient Cistercian abbey dating back to the 12th century.
Founded in 1135 by St. Bernard of Clairvaux, an influential monk and theologian of the time, it features Gothic architecture.
One of the first Italian examples of this kind and a mystical atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Inside its imposing church, you can admire medieval frescoes and works of art, as well as stroll through its beautiful gardens and courtyards.

The abbey also offers guided tours to learn more about its history and monastic traditions.

Chiaravalle Abbey House

After visiting the monastery, one can stop at the Abbey Refreshment House an ideal place to take a break before resuming the route to the Abbey of Santa Maria in Calvenzano.

Situated in a picturesque location, the refreshment house offers an oasis of tranquility giving a moment of peace, here you can taste a wide selection of fresh and tempting products such as:

• Bread and honey or jam.
• Monastic cookies with chocolate, cocoa, coconut, butter.
• White, green or black tea and herbal teas from the variety of flavors.
• Chopping board of carefully selected cold cuts and cheeses such as: coppa, cooked salami, ham or artisanal salami, while the cheese selection includes Grana Padano PDO aged for 12 and 20 months, spicy, chive or smooth caciotta, and spicy cheeses.
• Stuffed sandwiches prepared with bread made from Chiaravalle’s ancient grains.

To accompany meals, there is an extensive collection of Trappist, abbey and monastic beers from around the world in addition, both sparkling and still red and white wines are available, specially selected to match the products offered.

There is also an opportunity to enjoy cider on tap, a drink made from the alcoholic fermentation of apples.

Chiaravalle Abbey House is truly the perfect place to stop by on an out-of-town trip and enjoy high quality products in a peaceful and charming atmosphere.

The Abbey of Santa Maria in Calvenzano

A short distance from Chiaravalle Abbey is another hidden gem: the Abbey of Santa Maria in Calvenzano.This small Benedictine abbey, located in the town of Cernusco sul Naviglio, is a place of great serenity and beauty.

Built in the 10th century, Santa Maria in Calvenzano is known for its Romanesque architecture and its fresco of Christ Pantocrator, one of the oldest examples of medieval art in Lombardy.

An atmosphere of quietness and spirituality envelops this place, making it ideal for a relaxing and reflective visit.

The nature of the Abbeys of Chiaravalle and Santa Maria in Calvenzano

Both abbeys also offer opportunities to enjoy the surrounding nature.

Chiaravalle is located within a large regional park, the Parco Agricolo Sud Milano, where you can hike or bike along scenic trails and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Lombardy countryside.

Santa Maria in Calvenzano, on the other hand, is surrounded by a lush forest, perfect for a peaceful walk among the trees and native flora.

The two abbeys are not only places of historical and artistic interest, but also centers of spirituality and meditation. They offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the region’s thousand-year history, enjoy enchanting landscapes and find a moment of peace.

Conclusions

The Abbeys of Chiaravalle and Santa Maria in Calvenzano are definitely ideal destinations for an out-of-town trip.
They are easily accessible from Milan by car or public transport and offer an authentic and evocative experience.

Living in a metropolis like Milan can be tiring and stressful in the long run.Having places of such great artistic and cultural value and surrounded by nature at hand, makes it very easy to organize a relaxing and rejuvenating day.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover or looking for a moment of serenity, the abbeys of Chiaravalle and Santa Maria in Calvenzano will give you an unforgettable day a stone’s throw from Milan’s bustling metropolis.