Certosa di Padula
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 15 January 2024
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The Certosa di Padula is situated in the town of Padula in the Province of Salerno. Built in 1306, the Charterhouse is sometimes referred to as the Certosa di San Lorenzo.
It's been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, under the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula, listing since 1998. |
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The Certosa di Padula, also known as the Certosa di San Lorenzo, is a magnificent Carthusian monastery located in the town of Padula, in the Campania region of southern Italy. It is one of the largest and most impressive charterhouses in the world, known for its grand architecture, vast size, and rich artistic and historical heritage.
The Certosa di Padula is an architectural masterpiece, representing a blend of different styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. The complex is a vast and imposing structure, covering an area of around 51,500 square meters. It consists of several buildings, courtyards, and gardens, showcasing the grandeur and splendor of the Carthusian order.
The church of the Certosa di Padula is a notable attraction, featuring a magnificent Baroque facade with intricate sculptures and architectural details. Inside, visitors can explore various chapels adorned with exquisite frescoes, paintings, and religious artworks from renowned artists.
One of the highlights of the monastery is the stunning cloister, an elegant and peaceful courtyard surrounded by arched walkways, columns, and gardens, providing a tranquil space for reflection and contemplation.
The Certosa di Padula is an architectural masterpiece, representing a blend of different styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. The complex is a vast and imposing structure, covering an area of around 51,500 square meters. It consists of several buildings, courtyards, and gardens, showcasing the grandeur and splendor of the Carthusian order.
The church of the Certosa di Padula is a notable attraction, featuring a magnificent Baroque facade with intricate sculptures and architectural details. Inside, visitors can explore various chapels adorned with exquisite frescoes, paintings, and religious artworks from renowned artists.
One of the highlights of the monastery is the stunning cloister, an elegant and peaceful courtyard surrounded by arched walkways, columns, and gardens, providing a tranquil space for reflection and contemplation.
History
The Certosa di Padula was founded in 1306 by Tommaso II Sanseverino, the Count of Marsico, and his wife Elionora di Sanseverino. It was established as a Carthusian monastery, a strict monastic order known for its contemplative and ascetic way of life.
Over the centuries, the Certosa di Padula experienced periods of prosperity and decline, surviving earthquakes and changes in political and religious climates. The complex underwent various architectural additions and renovations, reaching its peak size and grandeur in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Over the centuries, the Certosa di Padula experienced periods of prosperity and decline, surviving earthquakes and changes in political and religious climates. The complex underwent various architectural additions and renovations, reaching its peak size and grandeur in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Key features
- Opening Hours: The complex is generally open to visitors during specific hours. It's recommended to check the specific opening times before planning your visit.
- Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee to access the monastery and its various attractions. The ticket often includes a guided tour of the complex.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available in multiple languages, offering insights into the history, art, and daily life of the Carthusian monks.
- Accessibility: The Certosa di Padula is partially accessible to visitors with mobility issues, but some areas may have limited accessibility due to stairs and uneven terrain.
- Events: The monastery occasionally hosts cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions, enhancing the visitor experience.
Certosa di Padula/Certosa di San Lorenzo
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Town: Padula
Province: Salerno Region: Campania Built: 1306 Architectural style: Baroque Fly to: Naples International Airport - 1 hour 46 minutes (163 km) Close by: Cilento Vallo di Diano & Alburni National Park, Paestum Recommended accommodation: Villa Cosilinum (1.6 km) |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archaeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
Year: 1998
Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archaeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula
Year: 1998
