The Abbey holds an exceptionally large collection of votive tablets, with some pieces dating back to the 15th century.
The monastery is home to an active laboratory for the restoration of ancient books and manuscripts.
Giuseppe Valadier, the famous architect who redesigned the Piazza del Popolo in Rome, created the Abbey's main altar.
The interior dome features an elaborate 18th-century fresco cycle by Giuseppe Milani.
The Abbey was established on the site of a 10th-century hermitage by Saint Peter Damian.
The Abbey of St Maria del Monte is a Benedictine monastery perched atop the Spaziano hill overlooking the city of Cesena. Founded in 1001, the site is renowned for its extensive collection of over 600 votive tablets, one of the largest in Europe. The current structure, dating largely from the 16th century, houses a 15th-century crypt and a high altar designed by Giuseppe Valadier. The complex includes an expansive terrace providing panoramic views of the Romagna region toward the Adriatic coast. The church interior features a striking dome painted by Giuseppe Milani in the 18th century. Monks continue to maintain the tradition of manuscript restoration within the monastery walls. The architectural layout integrates a cloisters system typical of Benedictine monasticism.
The external viewing terrace during golden hour.
Walk the outdoor path leading up to the hill for the best approach and views.
Check the monastic bookstore for artisanal products and local honey produced by the monks.
Respect the areas marked as private, as this is a functioning monastery.
Attempting to enter private monastic living quarters or taking flash photography inside the church.
The Abbey may observe reduced accessibility during liturgical services or private monastic retreats.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; maintain a quiet demeanor as it is a place of active worship and monastic living.
