Piona Abbey, Medieval abbey in Colico, Italy
Piona Abbey is a monastery built in First Romanesque style on the Olgiasca peninsula, along the eastern shore of Lake Como in northern Italy. The complex brings together a church, a square cloister, residential quarters, and a rectangular bell tower, all built in pale stone.
The monastery traces its origins to the 7th century, and the church standing today was dedicated in 1138. Cistercian monks took over the site in the 20th century and have maintained the community there ever since.
The cloister columns are carved with plant motifs and figures of saints that visitors can observe up close as they walk around the courtyard. The space still feels shaped by daily monastic life, with every detail pointing to a rhythm of prayer and shared work.
The site is best explored on foot, and a morning visit tends to be quieter with fewer people around. The stone floors and pathways throughout the complex can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.
The monks still produce medicinal herbs, honey, natural cosmetics, and liqueurs following recipes handed down within the community over generations. These products can be bought directly at the site during a visit.
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