Explore Arezzo and discover the Abbey of Saints Flora and Lucilla
Hello, dear explorer! Do you wish to immerse yourself in history in the heart of Arezzo? Have you ever heard of the Abbey of Saints Flora and Lucilla? If you haven’t, take a break and read on, because you are about to be introduced to a gem set among Arezzo’s treasures. A corner rich in history, art and charm! (Okay, maybe not mysteries, but definitely intriguing). Are you ready for adventure? Then get on with it!
The Abbey of Saints Flora and Lucilla : History and Foundation
The Bed & Breakfast “One Hundred Steps from the Cathedral” tells you fascinating stories. In the 9th century, Bishop John transported the relics of the martyrs Flora and Lucilla to Arezzo, beginning an eventful history. Subsequent construction and restoration resulted in the structure you see today, with Gothic influences evident from 1278 and the cloister added in 1489.
The Charm of the Renaissance: Innovations and Changes
In 1565, Giorgio Vasari radically transformed the structure, a process that continued until the seventeenth century culminating with the building of the bell tower in 1650. The building reflects its evolutionary stages, combining Gothic elements with Renaissance extensions. Get ready, then, for a historical immersion!
The Abbey of Saints Flora and Lucilla: Wonders of Art
Entering the Abbey of Saints Flora and Lucilla, you’ll find yourself immersed in a treasure trove of art, where masterpieces from different eras tell the story and reveal the beauty of this sacred place. Among the most significant works are the frescoes by Giorgio Vasari, examples of the refined Mannerist style, and the evocative St Lawrence by Bartolomeo della Gatta, recently restored in 2023, which is striking for the vividness of its details and its expressive depth.
These are joined by other authentic gems, such as the painted Cross by Segna di Bonaventura, a sublime example of Gothic painting, and the fascinating optical illusion of the dome painted by Andrea Pozzo, which gives the viewer a surprising three-dimensional effect. Every corner of the Abbey holds masterpieces just waiting to be discovered, making a visit a journey through faith, art and ingenuity.
The Tabernacle of the Sacrament: Architectural Masterpiece
Near the main altar of the Abbey of Saints Flora and Lucilla is a true jewel of Renaissance art: the Tabernacle of the Sacrament. This extraordinary artefact, attributed to Benedetto da Maiano and dated 1478, is a testament to the exceptional sculptural mastery of the 15th century. The work stands out for the harmony of its proportions, the elegance of its decorations and the refinement of its details, perfectly embodying the aesthetic ideals of the time.
The structure, made of finely carved precious marble, houses the Blessed Sacrament inside, making it not only an artistic masterpiece but also an important liturgical element. The decorations are a triumph of compositional balance, with classical motifs and a delicacy that invites contemplation. This tabernacle is not only a work of art, but a true dialogue of beauty between form, spirituality and sculptural perfection, capable of enchanting anyone who stops to admire it.
Your Home in Arezzo: The Bed & Breakfast “Cento Passi dal Duomo”
After exploring these wonders, what could be better than relaxing at “Cento Passi dal Duomo”? Your historic residence in the heart of Arezzo, where you become more than a customer: a guest. Explore the charm of the city while feeling at home.
The Badia delle Sante Flora e Lucilla is a gem of Arezzo, a crossroads of culture, beauty and history. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, it is a must-see. So, on your next visit to Arezzo, stop by this extraordinary place and immerse yourself in history.
And remember, the “Cento Passi dal Duomo” is waiting to make your trip unforgettable. So, see you in Arezzo?