Super authentic medieval abbey refuge

Welcome to the mesmerizing Benedictine Abbey of San Pietro! Mystic, hermetic, magical, spiritual, fascinating, but equally down to earth at the same time. It’s immediately clear, this property is not easy to catch in mere words! The very distinct atmosphere changes with the weather and time of day, but remains one of silence and solitude. The buildings are set in the boundaries of a 250 ha property, just below the barren crest of the Monti Martani hills. At about 1.000 m altitude the sweeping views are impressive, sometimes even dramatic and accompanied by only the sounds of nature. Huge beech trees have been witnessing the scene for at least the last 4 or 5 centuries, at times embraced by clouds passing by.

This fascinating historical hideaway could work in many different ways. A private residence away from the world, a refuge or retreat, an agriturismo,  sanctuary or hospitality rental/event business. The large amount of land provides plenty of opportunities to explore as well. Let’s check out the key features of this amazing estate:

• absolutely splendid location
• shielded and intimate position
• extraordinary setting
• unequaled complete privacy
• historic buildings with unique character
• lots of potential to discover

The buildings

Around the year 900 the site witnessed the construction of a convent. About one century later, in the year 1.000 the church was built on the remains of a Roman temple. In that time the location was of special strategic importance as it allowed full control of the mountain passes. Of the convent little has remained, the church however is still standing and in good structural condition.

Its appearance is austere with weathered gray stone walls. This hall has been used for events and banquets. It offers gothic vaults,  a balustrade gallery on the inside of the walls at a first floor level and at the original location of the altar is now an impressive stone Florentine Renaissance  fireplace.

In addition there are an entree, two bathrooms, as well as a chapel (the old sacristy) which is consecrated. It is possible to recuperate approximately 90 sq m of surface, divided over two floors of a part that has collapsed.

At a slightly higher level and convenient distance lies the outbuilding. These former stables have been transformed into a cozy cottage with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living and kitchen. Storage space, a woodshed and a covered terrace complete this building.

Please note all buildings are registered as historic landmarks. It should be possible to build 100 square meters of additional surface, not connected to the existing buildings. 

The land

The land consists mostly of woodland, farmland and meadows and offers a lot of opportunities for farm activities. Currently the access road comes up from Massa Martana, The land however allows for the construction of a road leading down to the Spoleto area as well making the location very central and a great base from which to travel and explore as well as easy to reach for people from different areas.

The surroundings

The nearest amenities are in Massa Martana at 6 km distance. The town offers a modest historic center and all that’s needed for daily life. The access to the E45 highway is 12 km away, and brings you to Rome 130 km, the famous Etruscan hilltop town Todi 22 km and bustling student city Perugia 68 km. Many other interesting sites and cities are within easy reach. The vineyards of Bevagna and Montefalco, Orvieto with its stunning cathedral and picturesque center, but to the north even Assisi and Lago Trasimeno are great day trip destinations. To the south Terni, Amelia, but also Rieti and the mountains of Terminillo are easy to get to. The nearest international airport is Perugia at 63 km distance, followed by Rome at  160 km.

Should you require additional information or like to plan a visit then please let me know, I will gladly assist you in any way I can.

Sincerely,

Caroline – Verdandi Real Estate