Convento di Santa Maria ad Nives di Palazzolo, Gothic convent in Rocca di Papa, Italy.
The Convento di Santa Maria ad Neves di Palazzolo is a Gothic convent in Rocca di Papa. The complex consists of several buildings arranged around a cloister with round arches, positioned on the Alban Hills overlooking Lake Albano.
The site originated in the 11th century as a monastic hermitage. In the 18th century, it underwent major renovations under Bishop José Maria Ribeiro da Fonseca de Évora.
The convent serves as a place for religious education and spiritual retreats. Visitors can sense its continuing monastic purpose through the presence of seminary students and retreat participants who use the grounds.
The building sits on a hillside with good views of the surrounding area. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since the grounds are on slopes and exploring the complex involves walking.
Between 1870 and 1910, the convent operated under Portuguese protection following negotiations between Italy and Portugal over ecclesiastical properties. This period represents an unusual chapter in the history of this Italian site.
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