Monastero di San Daniele - chiesa (1711)
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San Daniele Church and Monastery

4.7
·51 reviews·San Daniele, Italy

A serene Benedictine monastery in the Euganean Hills, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a peaceful escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Experience true peace and quiet.

CrowdLow
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Monastero di San Daniele - chiesa (1711)

San Daniele Church and Monastery

Best Time

Weekdays

Experience true peace and quiet.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Benedictine monastery in the Euganean Hills, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and a peaceful escape.

4.7
(51 reviews)

"A little-known pearl in the heart of the Euganean Hills, a place of peace and meditation."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk Through the Woods

Take the path through the woods for an immersive, pilgrimage-like experience.

🚗 Drive or Cycle Up

Easily reach the top by car or bike; parking is available.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Monastery's Panoramic Belvedere

The Monastery's Panoramic Belvedere

Euganean Hills

Marvel at a fabulous panorama from above the Euganean Hills. A truly breathtaking view awaits.

Ancient Furnishings and Art

Ancient Furnishings and Art

Monastery Museum Rooms

Explore rooms furnished with antique furniture and paintings, offering a glimpse into the monastery's rich past.

Stone and Cypress Staircase

Stone and Cypress Staircase

Path to the Church

Ascend a beautiful stone and cypress staircase, a visually striking and atmospheric approach to the church.

Monastery-Produced Liqueurs and Items

Monastery-Produced Liqueurs and Items

Monastery Shop

Purchase unique items and delicious liqueurs produced by the welcoming nuns, a perfect souvenir.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

To experience the full peace of San Daniele Church and Monastery, aim for weekdays. Weekends can see more visitors, diminishing the serene atmosphere. Arriving early or later in the afternoon can also help avoid crowds and enhance your contemplative visit. Reddit

Choosing Your Ascent

Reaching the monastery offers multiple paths. A scenic, albeit steep, stone staircase winds through the woods, offering an immersive pilgrimage-like experience. Alternatively, you can drive or cycle up, with parking available near the top. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Experience true peace and quiet.
Crowd
Low
When
Early Mornings
Why
Enjoy serene atmosphere.
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Golden hour views.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk Through the Woods

Take the path through the woods for an immersive, pilgrimage-like experience. Reddit

🚗 Drive or Cycle Up

Easily reach the top by car or bike; parking is available. Reddit

🛍️ Shop for Monastery Goods

Don't miss the chance to buy unique liqueurs and handicrafts made by the nuns. Reddit

🕰️ Check Opening Days

Ensure you visit on weekdays for guaranteed access. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk Through the Woods

Take the path through the woods for an immersive, pilgrimage-like experience. Reddit

🚗 Drive or Cycle Up

Easily reach the top by car or bike; parking is available. Reddit

🛍️ Shop for Monastery Goods

Don't miss the chance to buy unique liqueurs and handicrafts made by the nuns. Reddit

🕰️ Check Opening Days

Ensure you visit on weekdays for guaranteed access. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(51 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise San Daniele Church and Monastery for its profound peace, stunning panoramic views, and rich history. The welcoming Benedictine nuns and the opportunity to purchase their handmade goods are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. Some note that the journey up can be steep, and weekday visits are recommended for the best experience.

"This monastery (or former convent) is a place that enchants the soul. Immersed in serene nature and wrapped in a regenerating silence, it offers an immediate sense of inner peace.
​The historic architecture and thoughtfully designed spaces create an atmosphere of understated beauty that invites reflection. It's the perfect destination to unwind from routine and recharge your mind and spirit. An experience of profound relaxation and tranquility.
​Highly recommended."

Mc Giov

"The monastery, nestled on a hilltop, is nestled in the bucolic landscape of the Euganean Hills. It has a very ancient and diverse history. It is currently run by very welcoming and helpful nuns. The church is a gem, and the monastery, which can be visited, has rooms furnished with antique furniture and paintings. In the last room, you can purchase items and liqueurs produced in the monastery. Outside, there is a beautiful park with centuries-old trees."

Mario Rossi

"In Abano, at the top of San Daniele hill, stands the Benedictine monastery, a place of peace and beauty, where you can marvel at a fabulous panorama from above. The monastery is beautiful, with a fabulous stone and cypress staircase leading to the church. Next is the Benedictine convent, with an adjoining museum and a small shop selling their handicrafts. To reach the monastery on foot, there's a long staircase through the woods, a truly immersive experience. You can also climb by bike, taking a few hairpin bends, and it's a pleasant leg workout, accessible to everyone. Finally, you can also drive up by car, leaving your car in the parking lot and following two steep hairpin bends. It's worth a visit. An enchanting place."

Tiziana Bertolin

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Panoramic views
Welcoming nuns

What People Dislike

Steep ascent
Weekday access preferred

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the monastery by car, cycling, or on foot. The drive involves steep hairpin bends, and there's parking available. For a more immersive experience, take the stone staircase through the woods, which is a beautiful, albeit long, walk. Reddit

Yes, you can drive directly to the monastery, with parking available. The road has some steep hairpin bends, but it's accessible for most vehicles. Reddit

The walking path is a long, steep staircase that winds through a butcher's broom forest, offering a peaceful and immersive journey. It's described as a short pilgrimage. Reddit

Absolutely! Cycling is a popular option, offering a pleasant leg workout as you navigate the hairpin bends up the hill. Reddit

Information on direct public transport is limited, but it's generally recommended to drive, cycle, or walk from nearby towns like Abano Terme. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The visit to the monastery complex, including the church (behind a grate), Belvedere, and museum rooms, is generally free. However, it's always wise to check for any potential entry fees or donation requests. Reddit

The monastery is best visited on weekdays to ensure it's open. It's advisable to confirm specific opening times, as they can vary. Reddit

To experience the most tranquil atmosphere, plan your visit for weekdays, ideally in the early morning or late afternoon. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting a religious site like a church and monastery. Reddit

While the grounds offer some accessibility, the steep staircases and uneven paths might pose challenges. Driving to the top is the most accessible option. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can visit the church (behind a grate), the Belvedere for stunning views, and several museum rooms with antique furniture and paintings. The library is now a small exhibition space. Reddit

Yes, there is a small shop where you can purchase items and liqueurs produced by the Benedictine nuns. Reddit

Founded in the 11th century, the monastery has a diverse history, including periods of suppression and purchase by noble families, before returning to being a house of prayer for Benedictine nuns in 1948. Reddit

While there might not be formal guided tours, the free visit allows you to explore the church, Belvedere, and museum rooms at your own pace. Reddit

The facade is decorated with large oval stone carvings, including the Redeemer and two angels overlooking the tympanum, a work by Corradini, welcoming pilgrims. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within the monastery. It's recommended to bring your own snacks or plan to eat in nearby Abano Terme or Montegrotto Terme. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, the beautiful park and surrounding areas might offer opportunities for a picnic, though it's best to be discreet and tidy. Reddit

The shop offers items and liqueurs produced in the monastery by the nuns. These are unique souvenirs and local delicacies. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can vary. It's generally advisable to be discreet and respectful, especially inside the church and museum rooms. Check for any posted signs. Reddit

The panoramic Belvedere offers stunning views of the Euganean Hills. The stone and cypress staircase and the monastery's facade are also highly photogenic. Reddit

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the scenery and architecture. Early mornings can offer soft, diffused light. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

San Daniele Church and Monastery offers a unique outing for families. The walk up the stone staircase through the woods can be an adventure for children, turning the visit into a mini-exploration. Reddit The monastery museum rooms, with their antique furniture and paintings, can spark curiosity about history. Remember to bring snacks and water, as dining options are limited on-site. Reddit

Consider driving or cycling up if the long walk is too strenuous for younger children. The panoramic views from the Belvedere are sure to impress everyone. The opportunity to purchase unique items from the nuns' shop can also be a fun takeaway for kids. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Pilgrims

For solo travelers and those seeking a spiritual retreat, San Daniele Church and Monastery is an ideal destination. The peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays, allows for quiet contemplation and reflection. Reddit The walk through the woods offers a chance to connect with nature and enjoy a sense of solitude. Reddit

The monastery's history and the presence of the Benedictine nuns add to its spiritual significance. You can explore the church, the museum rooms, and the Belvedere at your own pace, soaking in the tranquility. Purchasing a locally made liqueur or item from the shop can serve as a meaningful memento of your peaceful visit. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers from Nearby Cities

San Daniele Church and Monastery is a perfect addition to a day trip from cities like Padua or Venice, offering a serene escape into the Euganean Hills. It's easily accessible by car, with a straightforward drive up the hill. Reddit The visit can be combined with exploring other attractions in Abano Terme or Montegrotto Terme. Reddit

Allocate a few hours to fully appreciate the monastery, its history, and the stunning views. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings, or plan for lunch in one of the nearby spa towns. The monastery shop offers unique local products as souvenirs. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Benedictine Nuns and Their Legacy

San Daniele Church and Monastery is currently home to a community of Benedictine cloistered nuns. These welcoming and helpful nuns are dedicated to maintaining the spiritual and physical integrity of this historic site. Their presence adds a unique dimension to the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into a life of prayer and contemplation. Reddit

The nuns are also responsible for producing various items and liqueurs sold in the monastery's shop. Purchasing these goods not only provides a unique souvenir but also supports the monastic community. Their dedication ensures that the monastery remains a place of peace and a testament to enduring traditions. Reddit

Architectural and Historical Significance

Founded in the 11th century, San Daniele Church and Monastery boasts a rich and ancient history. The Benedictine monastery, perched atop the hill, has witnessed centuries of change. Its facade is adorned with striking oval stone carvings, including depictions of the Redeemer and angels, a testament to the artistry of figures like Corradini. Reddit

The monastery's survival through various historical periods, including its purchase by the noble Todeschini family after the suppression of 1771, highlights its enduring importance. Since 1948, it has been a vibrant house of prayer, hosting Benedictine nuns who continue its legacy. The interior features rooms that were once part of a villa, now serving as a museum showcasing antique furniture, paintings, and historical artifacts. Reddit

Experiencing the Ascent: Paths and Perspectives

The journey to San Daniele Church and Monastery is an experience in itself, offering multiple routes to suit different preferences. The most evocative path is the long, stone staircase that winds through a dense forest of butcher's broom. This ascent is often described as a short, immersive pilgrimage, connecting visitors with nature and the spiritual ambiance of the location. Reddit

For those seeking convenience, driving or cycling are viable options. The road leading up the hill features several steep hairpin bends, providing a bit of a challenge for cyclists and a scenic drive for motorists. Parking is available near the summit, allowing for easy access to the monastery grounds. Regardless of the chosen method, the reward is a spectacular panoramic view from the Euganean Hills. Reddit

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