Fontevivo
The Fontevivo Abbey
The Abbey of San Bernardo, better known as the Fontevivo Abbey, is a historic gem of the Province of Parma. Founded in 1142, the abbey was originally a dependency of the Chiaravalle della Colomba Abbey. Later on, the abbey was occupied and looted in 1245 by the army of the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II and damaged in 1483 by the troops of Ludovico il Moro, Duke of Milan. Despite these difficulties, the abbey continued to be an important center of culture and faith, to the point that in 1497 it was incorporated into the Congregation of Saint Bernard and the church was rededicated to the saint.
The Art and Architecture of the Abbey
The Fontevivo Abbey is an example of Cistercian architecture, with the church and other buildings arranged around a large square cloister. The existing church dates back to the 13th century, when it was rebuilt on the impressive basilical plan. Completed in the 15th century, the facade features a lunette portal and a rose window in the center. Inside, the central nave is divided by pointed arches and houses several works of art, including Benedetto Antelami's Madonna and Child and Bernardino Gatti's polyptych.
The History of the Abbey in the 17th Century
In 1605, the abbey was purchased by Duke Ranuccio I Farnese, who had a avenue traced in front of the temple. In 1614, the spiritual jurisdiction of the monastery was transferred to the Saint John the Evangelist Abbey in Parma, while maintaining autonomy from the diocese. In 1728, Duke Antonio Farnese granted the abbey to the College of Nobles as a summer residence and started renovation work, which was abruptly interrupted in 1731 due to his death.
The Abbey Today
The Fontevivo Abbey is now open to the public as a museum and represents an extraordinary testimony of medieval monastic life. The library, once a place of study and prayer for the monks, offers the opportunity to admire ancient books and rare manuscripts. Today, the abbey is part of the Association of Castles of the Duchy of Parma, Piacenza, and Pontremoli and represents a cultural and artistic heritage of the Province of Parma.
In conclusion, the Fontevivo Abbey is an important testimony of the history and culture of the Parma territory. Its Cistercian architecture and the works of art it houses are an example of the greatness and magnificence of a bygone era. Visiting the abbey today means immersing oneself in an atmosphere of peace and spirituality, in a place where history and art merge together to create a unique and unforgettable experience.
