Thanks to #TermeinTerrediSiena I had the chance to visit another beautiful and unconventional place in the province of Siena, the beautiful Abbey of San Salvatore on Mount Amiata.
The Abbey
The Abbey of San Salvatore is in the center of the Abbadia San Salvatore, a lovely city on Mount Amiata famous for its mines. It was founded by Longobards around 762 and had its major splendor between 10th and 12th centuries. It was consecrated in 1035 by the monk Winizzo.
The Church of San Salvatore
The Church is a great example of proto-Romanesque architecture and preserves several works of art such as the wooden crucifix dating back to 12th century. The crucifix is colored and is a reliquary preserving two ancient relics.
But the most interesting area is the crypt of the Abbey dating back to Longobards age. It counts 35 columns, most of them are original and are richly decorated. Legend has it that there is the tomb of Erfone.
The crypt
The treasure of the Abbey of San Salvatore
The Abbey is famous for its rich collection, that soon will be displayed in a new museum. The collection hosts several unique pieces such as the copy of the Codex Amintus, the oldest handwritten Bible of the world. The book wights over 60 kilos and was realized in 632 by Sonofrio Eusebio Girolamo. The original text is now at Laurenziana Library in Florence.
The Amiata Bible
Another unique piece is the Reliquary of San Marco the Pope, preserving the head of the Saint. The big reliquary is made of golden copper and has been enriched with opal glazes. It dates back to 1381 and is a great example of goldsmiths art.
The Reliquary of San Marco
Related to San Marco the Pope is the red chasuble, liturgical vestment owned by the Saint. The vestment is richly decorated with designs and pearls. Then there are other ancient reliquaries as the Irish reliquary. This wooden box is unique and dates back to 7th century.
Details
The Abbey of San Salvatore is in the center of Abbadia San Salvatore. The church opens every day, while for the museum at the moment you have to look for the priest. For more information visit the official website.
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