The monastery and the adjoining former church have never changed their use: they have always been consecrated to culture.
In fact, the complex, founded around 1290 by the Eremitan fathers and passed in 1407 to the Observant Regulars (both belonging to the monastic order of St. Augustine), soon became the seat of an important center of studies, both religious and cultural.
In 1647 it began to house the Accademia degli Eccitati, and in 1670 schools of philosophy and theology were opened there.
Today, the tradition continues; the monastery is one of the headquarters of the University of Bergamo and the former church was recently used as a Great Hall.
Work has brought this ancient jewel of Upper Town back to life: from the outside, you’ll be able to admire the gabled, sandstone Gothic facade and the round-arched northern-style entrance portal.
Upon entering, you’ll be breathless as you gaze at the majestic wooden coffered ceiling and walls with excerpts of medieval frescoes flooded with light from the tall windows.
Just in front of the former church of St. Augustine stretches the Fara meadow: as soon as a warm spring sun begins to come out, this green space fills up with people who want to do some sports, relax with friends, spend time outdoors and have fun.
Would you like to join them?