San Clemente Abbey in Casauria, church in Castiglione a Casauria (PE), Italy
San Clemente Abbey in Casauria is a medieval church founded in the 9th century with Romanesque architecture featuring three long naves separated by tall columns. Beneath the main floor lies a crypt where important relics are kept, and the bronze entrance door displays 72 carved scenes depicting the abbey's founding history.
The abbey was founded around 871 after Emperor Ludwig II made a vow to God, originally dedicated to the Holy Trinity before receiving the relics of Pope Clement I. It suffered repeated attacks by Saracens and damage from earthquakes across the centuries, yet monks and local leaders worked continuously to rebuild and preserve it.
The abbey takes its name from the relics of Pope Clement I, an early Christian leader whose remains were brought here and housed within the church. For centuries, this place has served as a gathering point for local people to pray and observe important religious occasions.
The abbey is open on specific days mostly in warmer months and closed on Tuesdays, with clear signs directing visitors to the site. A small museum on the grounds displays objects discovered during archaeological work, helping you understand the region's long history.
The bronze entrance door contains 72 carved scenes influenced by artistic styles from France and the Middle East brought back by crusaders and traders. This reveals how the abbey sat on important trade routes and absorbed artistic influences from distant lands.
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