Monastero di San Felice

Monastero di San Felice is a former Benedictine monastery in Pavia with a church featuring three apses. The interior contains a crypt with white marble reliquary arks and a cloister supported by 30 marble columns.

The monastery was founded during the Lombard period around 760 and received donations from King Desiderius and Queen Ansa. After centuries of religious importance, it was suppressed in 1785.

During the 15th century, young noblewomen from prominent families entered this community, and the abbey underwent major renovations under Abbess Andriola de Barrachis. This shaped the spiritual and social life of the city for generations.

The buildings now house departments of the University of Pavia, making it accessible as a working campus. Visitors should expect that active academic areas may have limitations on exploration.

Archaeological excavations in 1996 revealed eight tombs from the 8th century within the church. Among the burials was the grave of English Princess Æthelswith, showing the monastery's early medieval connections.

Location: Pavia

Part of: University of Pavia

GPS coordinates: 45.18833,9.15222

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:06