The most culturally significant and picturesque spiritual retreat in the Euganean Hills, it dates from the 11th century and is situated at the foot of Monte Lonzina, a few minutes away from Abano Terme. Abbazia di Praglia is a Benedictine monastery, and has a wealth of hidden treasures to discover – both for those in search of spiritual peace and for those with a passion for history, botany or many other areas of interest.

The monks who live in the Abbey keep themselves very busy – making cosmetics and remedies from purely natural ingredients, or restoring ancient books. This beautiful monastery is truly enchanting – an experience not to be missed.

For information and advice on what to see in Abano Terme and the surrounding area, write to us here or call us on (+39) 049 8668099.

The treasures of Abbazia di Praglia

The Abbey has a somewhat troubled history. After several centuries of territorial disputes, from 1448 until the 19th century it went through a period of great prosperity – during which the monks left a couple of times, until they came back for good in 1904.

The present-day site of the Abbazia di Praglia, with its vast size, well-proportioned spaces and architectural style that alternates between Late Gothic and Renaissance, make it an important artistic monument as well as a beautiful spiritual retreat.

The visit starts from the Quattro Chiostri (Four Cloisters), stopping at the Chiostro Botanico, an elegant garden once used for cultivating medicinal plants. Even the Chiostro Rustico was used for hard work – this is where the press for making olive oil was situated. Then comes the Chiostro Doppio (Double Cloister), built on two floors facing the monks’ private rooms, and the Chiostro Pensile (Hanging Cloister), with its atmospheric view from the Loggetta Belvedere over the surrounding countryside.

The Abbey’s basilica is a truly imposing place of worship, where you can spend some time in spiritual peace and reflection. The Refettorio Monumentale is equally evocative in character – but the crowning glory of the Abbey is the Biblioteca Antica (library of ancient books), which houses 100,000 volumes and is an Italian National Monument. This unmissable cultural treasure is annexed to a widely-respected workshop that specialises in ancient book restoration.

The fruits of labour and tradition

Using their traditional knowledge of herbal medicine in a well-equipped laboratory, the monks at Abbazia di Praglia make creams and products using purely natural ingredients, herbal teas, infusions and phytotherapy capsules, following recipes inspired by documents from the spicery in the ancient monastery. As well as natural remedies, you’ll find other produce such as honey and wines from the monastery cellar.

On the Abbazia di Praglia website you’ll find detailed information and facts about this enchanting place.  This is a trip not to be missed during your stay at the spa. You’ll get the chance to appreciate the rewards of a working life far from the frantic pace of modernity, and to discover a new way of seeing the world.

The Abbazia di Praglia is just over 10 minutes away from Hotel Tritone. Our staff are always available to take bookings for tours and excursions. For information and advice, write to us here or call us on (+39) 049 8668099.