Abbey of Vangadizza

The creation of the abbey is generally connected with the large donations from marquis Aimeric of Mantua, in the 950s, followed by others from Hugh of Tuscanya few years later.

In 1213 the abbey adhered to the Camaldolese order, dedicating itself in particular to cultural activities: it amassed a large library and included a school of philosophy, theology, chant, arts and sciences, although it got progressively detached from the care of the territory and from its colonists, which had been the base of its richness in the previous centuries.

[1] In the early 15th century the abbey lost its temporal rights, and was put under the in commendam status, i.e. under the control of external ecclesiastics.

The base of the bell tower include antique elements, such a bas-relief with a Maenad, dating from the 1st century AD.

Other sights include the 13th century portico-courtyard, with Verona marble columns, and a 15th-century chapel dedicated to the Holy Virgin.