Nestled between the Allegrezza forest and the Benaglia hill, the Val d’Astino welcomes visitors with an atmosphere of peace and serenity. It was certainly no coincidence that, back in 1107, the Vallombrosian monks chose this enchanting place to erect their monastery, flanked by the striking Church of the Holy Sepulchre. An indissoluble bond was established between these sacred buildings and the surrounding area, so much so that the name Astino became synonymous with both the valley and the monumental complex that stands there.
The harmonious organization of space in this corner of paradise almost seems to dictate the rhythm of time, making it eternal. Sitting on the vast lawn that embraces the complex, one is enraptured by the beauty and stillness of the surrounding landscape, an invitation to contemplation and spiritual regeneration.
Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills and cultivated fields, the monastery offers itself as a starting point for exploring the dense network of trails that wind through the surrounding area: eastward, toward the Longuelo district of Bergamo; westward, toward the picturesque San Martino valley; northward, toward San Sebastiano and the scenic peaks of Bastia and San Vigilio.
Architecture and History of the Monastery of Astino
During the 15th century, the monastery of Astino extended its influence by acquiring land throughout the province, consolidating its economic and social role in the Bergamo area. The church, consecrated in 1170, underwent major renovation and refurbishment from about 1540 until the end of the century. During this period the east wing, the interior rooms of the south wing were completed and the imposing southwest corner tower was erected, which still dominates the valley with its majestic presence.
The Church of the Holy Sepulcher has a distinctive commissa cross structure, characterized by a single nave that flows into the transept. This configuration was modified during the Renaissance with the addition of a deep chancel, further enriching the sacred architecture of the building. Inside, no less than three altars can be admired: the high altar, in a slightly elevated position, and the altars of St. Martin and the Evangelists, dating from before 1140, valuable evidence of the religious history of the place.
The history of the monastery complex took a significant turn with the arrival of Napoleon in 1797. The monastery was suppressed and turned first into an asylum and later into a farm. In 1923, it was sold to private individuals, marking a period of decline and abandonment.
Art and Restoration of the Former Monastery of Astino
In 2007, the Congregation of the Misericordia Maggiore purchased the complex and began an ambitious restoration project. The church was fully recovered in 2013, and work still continues to bring to light the beauty of the convent rooms and frescoes, hitherto hidden under a thick layer of white plaster spread between the 19th and 20th centuries.
Events
On the occasion of EXPO 2015, the monastery came back to life and welcomed many visitors, hosting events, exhibitions and initiatives related to the theme of food, wine and nutrition. The spacious meadows surrounding the religious buildings were peacefully invaded by those wishing to immerse themselves in the enchantment of the valley, while the surrounding fields offer a concrete example of how biodiversity can be a key element in modern agriculture.
Curiosity: The Last Supper rediscovered
The refined Last Supper, made by Florentine painter Alessandro Allori for the monastery refectory, has finally returned to its place after careful restoration, further enriching Astino’s artistic and cultural heritage.