| Handicrafts
|
| The best Artisan Masters
show their works through their art |
 |
|
|
|
|
| Italian
Minds |
| The italian style, famous
all over the world, full of original and fine ideas |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
|
century panel attributed to Jacopo da Cione. The
vaulted crypt still preserves part of the Romanesque apse, transformed
in the 16th century during the enlargement process, and a lovely
inlaid altar. The cloister by Michelozzi, built on two wings,
is monumental. The Christmas Mass, celebrated in Gregoria chant,
at which the cloistered nuns assist, is very lovely. At the
Guest House it is possible to purchase items of embroidery handmade
by the nuns. Visits are limited since it is a cloistered convent
(for information, phone 055/8303006 Guest House phone 055/8303031
fax 055/8303477). |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
Founded in 780, as inscribed
on the facade, donated by the Guidi family during the 11th century.
It has undergone numerous enlargements, as testifield by two cloisters:
one of the 16th century and one of the 18th century, the former bearing
the touch of Michelozzi. In 1810 it suffered the Napoleonic suppression,
as well as another period at the end of the century, the passing of
the war and the 1966 flood. Run by the cloistered Benedectine nuns,
the complex - restructured in 1966 by architect Guido Morozzi - is
well worth a thorough visit. The Romanesque church, with three naves
resting on quadrangular pillars and the 1523 portal in the façade,
has been restored to its 14th century form. On one side, the 12th-century
bell tower soars upward with sets of single, double and triple mullioned
windows. Inside the church, there is a 17th-century fresco depicting
the Madonna with the Christ Child in her arms, a wooden choir from
the 16th century, a 1430 triptych by Giovanni dal Ponte, a 12th century
Crucifix by Maestro di Vico, and a baptismal font from 1423. At the
base of the bell tower in the chapel of the Annunciation, there is
a 14th |
|
TuscanyDream/Tuscan
Itineraries/Convent of Santa Maria
