Fossanova
The Interior
The church of Santa Maria is one of the most important examples of Cistercian architecture in Italy. The interior is plain, where the monastic life is underlined by the austere decoration. Gothic arch windows allow the light to filter through the stained glass and create an atmosphere of great spirituality. The high altar is a masterpiece of the Renaissance with the altarpiece by Francesco da Sangallo depicting the Assumption of the Virgin.
The Cloister
The abbey has a well-preserved cloister, surrounded by full arches supported by twin columns with proto-Gothic capitals. The cloister is surrounded by the monks' porticoed dormitories, the Chapter House and the kitchen.
How to Get There
Visiting the abbey is easy and quick to do. It is easily reached from Provincial Road 156, which connects Priverno to Terracina. The parking lot for cars is just a few steps from the entrance and the entrance fee is modest and also includes access to the cloister, the Chapter House, and the kitchen.
Conclusions
The abbey of Fossanova is an Italian cultural excellence, a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art and one of the tourist stops not to be missed when visiting the provinces of Latina, Rome, and Frosinone. Visiting the abbey can be a suggestive choice to break the routine, appreciate the beauty of medieval-Renaissance architecture and art, and immerse yourself in a spiritual experience of great suggestion through the fascination of monastic life. The visit is strongly recommended both to individuals and to groups of tourists, you will not fail to experience the thrill of a piece of history lived and told in one of Italy's most beautiful abbeys.
