Abbey of San Martino delle Scale

The Abbey of San Martino delle Scale is a Benedictine monastery in San Martino delle Scale near Monreale, set between Monte Cuccio and Monte Caputo. The church has a single nave with five chapels on each side and connects monastic buildings from different periods.

Pope Gregory I founded a monastery here in 590, which was destroyed by Saracens in the 9th century. Archbishop Emanuele Spinola rebuilt it in 1347 and handed it over to Benedictine monks from Cava de' Tirreni monastery.

The refectory features a wall painting from 1589 by Jesuit painter Pietro Novelli, completed in 1763 by Vincenzo Riolo, who also decorated other rooms within the complex. The cloister columns display carved capitals that depict scenes from the Old Testament.

The complex lies about 15 kilometers from Palermo and can be reached via a mountain road through pine forests. Visitors may attend prayer sessions and find accommodation for individuals and groups.

The monastery operates restoration workshops where art objects from churches in the area are repaired. The historical library with old manuscripts and printed works remains open to researchers and the public.

Location: Monreale

Part of: Church and Convent of San Martino delle Scale

GPS coordinates: 38.09100,13.25450

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30