Abbazia di Piona
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 1 December 2023
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Situated towards the northern tip of Lake Como on its eastern shores, Abbazia di Piona is a 13th century abbey that's open to visitors.
Built in 1242, the abbey is situated up a hill on a peninsula which also has its own ferry stop. Although just 8 kilometres away, the nearby lakeside town of Colico is a 15 minute drive away as the roads leading up to the abbey are quite steep and narrow. Head a little way south and you'll reach the well-known towns of Bellano and Varenna while in the other direction you can find Verceia on Lake Mezzola. |
Abbazia di Piona, Łąkę Como
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The Abbazia di Piona, also known as the Piona Abbey, is a beautiful and historic monastery located on the eastern shore of Lake Como in the Lombardy region of northern Italy.
Situated near the town of Colico, the abbey offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking a serene and cultural experience.
Situated near the town of Colico, the abbey offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking a serene and cultural experience.
History
The history of the Piona Abbey dates back to the 7th century when it was founded by Roman monk Saint Aurelius. Over the centuries, the abbey underwent several expansions and renovations, becoming an important religious and cultural center in the region.
It was home to a community of Cistercian monks who dedicated themselves to prayer, work, and self-sufficiency. The abbey's location on the shores of Lake Como made it a prominent stop along the ancient pilgrim routes, attracting travelers and pilgrims from different parts of Europe. Today, the Piona Abbey still houses a community of Cistercian monks who continue to maintain the spiritual and cultural legacy of the place.
It was home to a community of Cistercian monks who dedicated themselves to prayer, work, and self-sufficiency. The abbey's location on the shores of Lake Como made it a prominent stop along the ancient pilgrim routes, attracting travelers and pilgrims from different parts of Europe. Today, the Piona Abbey still houses a community of Cistercian monks who continue to maintain the spiritual and cultural legacy of the place.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Church and Cloisters: Visit the abbey's beautiful church, which features a mix of architectural styles from different periods. Admire the elegant Romanesque cloisters, with their arcades and picturesque views of the lake.
- Gardens and Grounds: Take a leisurely stroll through the abbey's gardens and grounds, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and scenic surroundings.
- Panoramic Views: The abbey offers breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding landscape, making it an excellent spot for photography and relaxation.
- Religious Artefacts: Inside the church, visitors can find a collection of religious artefacts, including sculptures, paintings, and religious relics.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available to learn more about the history and cultural significance of the Piona Abbey.
- Shop and Products: The abbey's shop offers a selection of products made by the monks, including herbal teas, liqueurs, and honey.
- Tranquility and Meditation: The abbey's tranquil setting allows visitors to experience a moment of peace and reflection, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
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Opening-times:
Morning: 09:00 - 12:00 Afternoon: 14:30 - 18:00 |
Masses:
Mon - Sat: 07:00 Sundays and holidays: 09:30 - 11:00 |
Abbazia di Piona
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Province: Lecco
Region: Lombardy Close by: Colico, Dorio, Dervio, Verceia, Lake Mezzola Lake Como ferry stop: Piona Nearest train station: Piona (6 km) Fly to: Milan Bergamo (80 km), Milan Malpensa (115 km) Recommended accommodation: Hotel Risi (8 km) |
