Monastier di Treviso

Exploring the history of Monastier di Treviso

Hello friends, today I will talk about the history of Monastier di Treviso, a small town with 4,401 inhabitants located in the province of Treviso, in Veneto. The center is divided into different parts, but the town hall is located in Fornaci.

Antiquity

Human presence in this area dates back to the Neolithic period, about 5000 years ago. Waterways, such as the Meolo river, were a determining factor for human settlement, and today we can admire artifacts from that period, including various flint tools and a small dagger. The Romans were also here, as evidenced by many findings. It seems that an important road that connected Altinum to Oderzo passed through here.

Discover the history and beauty of Monastier di Treviso.

The Middle Ages

The history of Monastier is closely linked to the monastery of the Order of St. Benedict, founded in 958. It was Otto I of Saxony, future emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, who donated the marshy land where the forest was located to the Abbey of Santa Maria del Pero, which controlled all the territory between the Piave and Vallio rivers, up to the Venetian lagoon. In 1017, Emperor Henry II donated the village of San Polo di Piave to the abbey and confirmed its privileges. In the thirteenth century, the primitive Venetian-Byzantine church was rebuilt in Romanesque style, with the new title of Santa Maria Assunta. In 1300, the monastery separated from the Patriarchate of Aquileia and became linked to the diocese of Treviso.

The Venetian period

During the fifteenth century, the landscape of Monastier was still dominated by the forest, but the work of cultivating the countryside and deforestation intensified. The Rules of Frassalongo, Riva di Predalcino and Rovarè depended on it. Between 1449 and 1479, the monastery was closed due to a lack of vocations, and then became a commendation entrusted to Giovanni Barbo. The buildings remained unused until the Benedictine congregation of Santa Giustina of Padua took over on March 13, 1480.

Today, Monastier di Treviso is a small but fascinating municipality. It has a history dating back thousands of years and has preserved its ancient traditions. If you visit this area, do not forget to discover all the hidden treasures of its ancient history.

Landscape and culture

Monastier di Treviso is a municipality located in an area rich in natural resources, particularly due to the presence of waterways. Among the most important rivers is the Meolo, which runs through the area and has helped create a natural landscape of great value. The territory also offers numerous opportunities for walks, bike rides, and outdoor activities.

Culture is also very present in this town. During the summer period, various festivals can be attended, including that of Santa Maria Maddalena in Rovaio and that of San Rocco in Fornaci, where typical local products can be tasted. Among the cultural events, there is the Nativity scene exhibition during the Christmas period and the feast of San Benedetto, the patron saint of the municipality.

What to visit in Monastier di Treviso

If you visit Monastier di Treviso, you cannot miss the church of Santa Maria Assunta, which dates back to the twelfth century and was rebuilt in Romanesque style after two hundred years of Aquileian domination. Inside, there are numerous works of art, including the painting from the Belluno school of the Madonna with Child and St. Helena.

The monastery, which has now become a private residence, is still visible from the outside and preserves traces of its ancient history. In addition, I recommend visiting Villa Patrizi, a beautiful eighteenth-century villa that still preserves the frescoes of the bedrooms and a splendid collection of antique furniture.

Local cuisine

The local cuisine of Monastier di Treviso is rich in flavors and aromas. Among the typical dishes are sardines in saor, baccalà alla vicentina, risotto with radicchio, and pandolo, a typical Christmas dessert. But the typical products of Monastier are also radicchio and white asparagus, which are used in many recipes.

In addition, in this area, it is possible to taste the famous Prosecco, a sparkling white wine produced in the hills around Treviso.

Conclusions

So here, friends, is the history of Monastier di Treviso. A small but rich municipality with history and culture, immersed in a natural landscape of great value. Visiting this area means discovering a millenary tradition of art, culture, and good food. I highly recommend visiting Monastier di Treviso, you won't regret it!

Matteo Ferrari
Updated Friday, Oct 7, 2022