San Giovanni in Venere Abbey

The San Giovanni in Venere Abbey stands on a hill at 107 meters above sea level, offering views of the Adriatic Sea along the coast.

Construction of the current structure began in 1165 under Abbot Oderisio II following an earthquake, with completion achieved around 1204 using Burgundian Cistercian methods.

The monastery functioned as an educational center, controlling extensive territories along the Abruzzo coast and maintaining feudal rights in the region.

The religious complex includes a basilica, monastery buildings, cloisters from the 13th century, and gardens that visitors can explore through guided tours.

Excavations beneath the abbey revealed remnants of an ancient pagan temple from 80 BCE dedicated to Venus, connecting the site to pre-Christian worship.

Location: Fossacesia

Inception: 13 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Phone: +39087260132

Email: pm-abr@beniculturali.it

Website: http://musei.abruzzo.beniculturali.it/musei?mid=1281&nome=abbazia-di-san-giovanni-in-venere

GPS coordinates: 42.25488,14.49846

Latest update: May 27, 2025 11:42