Abbey of San Martino al Cimino

The Abbey of San Martino al Cimino is a parish church in Cistercian style built on the northwest slopes of the Cimini mountains. The building features two bell towers and displays characteristic medieval monastic architecture with an elongated ground plan.

The foundation dates back to the 9th century when a church was dedicated to Saint Martin. In the 11th century, Benedictine monks from the Abbey of Farfa reshaped and expanded the structure.

The church follows strict Cistercian design principles with clean, sober forms and no ornamental excess. Visitors notice immediately the simplicity of the interior space, which reflects the spiritual values of this monastic community.

The building sits several kilometers northwest of Viterbo in a quiet, hilly area. Access is best arranged with personal transportation, as the church is somewhat removed from main roads.

Among the valuable items inside is the tomb of Olimpia Maidalchini Pamphilj, an influential 17th century woman. The gravestone displays a memento mori skeleton, a reminder of mortality that still impresses visitors today.

Location: Viterbo

Inception: 1150

Architectural style: Cistercian architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.36750,12.12806

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:49