CONCEPT STORE
Piazza Grande 34, Modena
Piazza Grande 34, Modena
ART EXPERIENCE
Nonantola Abbey is an ancient Benedictine abbey. Founded in the 8th century, the Abbey has a rich and fascinating history that makes it a place of great historical and cultural importance.
The Abbey was founded around the year 752 by Abbot Anselm, a Lombard nobleman, and was one of the most important religious centres in medieval Europe. The building was dedicated in 756 to Saint Sylvester I Pope. Its strategic position as a religious and cultural centre has given it a significant role in the evolution of society and faith in the surrounding area.
The Abbey constitutes, together with Modena Cathedral, one of the most important examples of Romanesque art in Europe. On the portal we find carvings of notable artistic interest :
The two stylobal lions are an analogy with the Duomo of Modena. These symbolise the two natures of Christ, the divine and the human respectively.
The entrance is wide and solemn, the nave is separated from the two side aisles by two rows of pillars. The basilica has a typical Romanesque structure with three naves and is sober and essential. The interior is decorated with frescoes and works of art that testify to its artistic and spiritual importance over the centuries.
The Abbey of Nonantola played a crucial role in promoting culture and knowledge during the Middle Age. It has been a centre of manuscript copying and study, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of classical knowledge.
Today, the Abbey is still active and open to the public, welcoming visitors who wish to immerse themselves in the history, architecture and spirituality of this fascinating place.