The abbey is placed in the wonderful forest of Vallombrosa (Natural Biogenetic Reserve since 1973) created and looked after by monks since centuries. The visit to the monastery is truly interesting: the imposing building, overlooked by a high bell tower dating back to 1200 and a tower, looks like a castle. After passing through the gate, the fine seventeenth-century facade by Gherardo Silvani become visible. The church facade is of the same century but maintains the medieval framework even though the present appearance shows baroque influences. Several works of art can be admired in the abbey: Della Robbia bas-relief is in the vestibule facing the refectory where 15 paintings by Ingazio Hugford are hanging, the wooden choir of the church was carved and inlaid by Francesco da Poggibonsi. Around the abbey, in the forest, in the sacred places where Gualberto spent his prodigious life, there are many chapels and tabernacles which date back to XVI and XVII centuries. The paths which lead to these small religious buildings offer to visitors several occasions for meditation.

Via San Benedetto, 2 - 50066 VALLOMBROSA (Florence)
Open: autumn/winter 9,00-12,00/ 15,00-18,00;
spring/summer 6,00-12,00/ 15,00-19,00