A Journey through Time and Spirituality: welcome to the Astino Abbey

07 February 2024

Hidden among the hills beyond the Upper Town of Bergamo, the Astino Abbey rises majestically, a place full of history, mysticism and beauty. This ancient monastery complex, dating back to the 12th century, is a hidden treasure that enchants visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved historical artefacts.

History and Architecture

Astino Abbey, founded between 1070 and 1107, has had an eventful history that reflects the religious and cultural fervour that spanned over the centuries. Initially conceived as a place of prayer and contemplation for the Vallombrosian monks, the monastery underwent several transformations over time, passing under the patronage of various aristocratic families, including the Visconti, and finally becoming, after the ongoing restoration sponsored by the MIA Foundation, a multifunctional space and a reference for the local community.

The architecture of the abbey is a fascinating combination of styles ranging from Romanesque to Renaissance, with Gothic and Baroque elements added in later periods. Its impressive stone walls enclose silent courtyards, decorated cloisters and a church with sober but striking lines. Every corner of the monastery seems to be telling a story, transporting visitors back in time.

Astino Abbey – Things to see

Set in an enchanting natural environment, the Astino Abbey in Bergamo offers visitors an atmosphere of peace and serenity, ideal for a break from the hustle and bustle of our everyday life. Surrounded by forests and scenic paths, this monastery is the perfect place for those who wish to spend some time surrounded by nature and in contemplation.

Inside the Astino Abbey, visitors can admire a rich collection of sacred art and historical artefacts. Medieval frescoes decorate the walls of the Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro (Church of the Holy Sepulchre), adjacent to the monastery, while skilfully carved wooden sculptures and altars stand as reminders of the craftsmanship of that time.

Among the monastery’s most precious treasures we can find its cloister, a jewel of Renaissance architecture characterised by elegant pillars and a peaceful inner garden, ideal for meditation and reflection. Inside the cloister there is the Astino Abbey Restaurant, which opened a few years ago.

Near the southern bastion of the monastery garden, it is also possible to visit the Cascina Mulino, which is thought to have once been a mill building, while today it is used for private events and as a market for agricultural produce.

Visitors to the complex also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of the former monastery through a series of engaging experiences: regular cultural events, such as concerts and art exhibitions, add a contemporary dimension to its rich tradition.

What to do in the surrounding area: the Astino Valley

For those who make it all the way up here, there are several other activities and routes to take, to keep enjoying the quiet of this place.

Just a few steps away from the Astino Abbey you can find the Valle della Biodiversità (Biodiversity Valley), which is an annex of the Botanical Garden of Bergamo, where you can discover different species of plants, trees and flowers through an interesting guided itinerary. Moreover, following the suggestion of an important national linseed and hemp mill in 2018, the unique cultivation of hemp and flax was reintroduced.

Those who love walking in forests can take a walk along the Via Allegrezza Wood, a road that turns into a footpath and, through a loop trail of about 1 hour, also gives you the opportunity to see the ruins of the Allegrezza Tower.

Finally, those who come here by public transport can choose to go back to the city by going down or up from the Upper Town, with a walk that takes you through farmsteads, meadows and fields.

Astino Abbey – Where it is and opening times

This ancient monastic complex is located in the Astino valley, about 7 kilometres from the centre of Bergamo.

During the winter season, the Abbey is only open at weekends and on public holidays, from 9.30 am to 5 pm.

In spring and summer, opening times are extended until 10 pm, but for up-to-date information please check the MIA Foundation website.

For those who wish to deepen their spiritual experience, the monastery also offers the possibility of participating in the celebration of Sunday Mass at 4 pm.

Admission is free. The monastery does not offer a guided tour service. If you come with an organised group that includes a tour guide, you have to book in advance and there is a small fee to pay (2 euros for visiting the Chiesa del Santo Sepolcro and 3 euros for the Sala del Refettorio).

Astino Abbey – How to get there

You can reach the Astino Abbey by car, driving along Via Astino and following the indications for the monastery, then leaving the vehicle in the paid car park, or by public transport.

For those who prefer public transport, from the centre of Bergamo you can take Bus ATB – 8B direction Briolo, or alternatively Bus 9B – direction Mozzo, and then walk along a short path to the monastery. A very convenient way of reaching Astino is by Tuk Tuk, or Ape Calessino – a driver will take you directly to the monastery without having to worry about looking for buses and parking spaces.

The Abbey is also accessible on foot, starting from the Longuelo district of Bergamo, with a 20/25-minute walk, or by bike, for a ride that allows you to enjoy the view from the Colli di Bergamo cycle path.

Once there, visitors can freely explore the monastery and its surroundings, admiring its medieval architecture and enjoying the tranquillity and peace of this wonderful place.