Ristoro dell'Abbazia In Milano

A Cistercian monastery founded by Bernard of Clairvaux. Upon entering, one breathes in history and beauty. The church, frescoed with cycles related to the Cistercians, features a wooden choir of exquisite workmanship and imposing brick columns originally frescoed. Note the painting of the Madonna and Child, known as the Madonna of Goodnight, by the school of Leonardo, located at the top of the stairs leading from the church to the dormitory (so called because it was the last image the monks looked at before going to sleep). The cloister, accessed through a door in the church, is also very beautiful. Of particular beauty is the octagonal tower known as Ciribiciaccola, an onomatopoeia with the sound of a young stork.

A mystical place, full of charm and enchantment. A caress for the soul.

Many years living in Milan and I missed this little gem until now. Beautiful setting with tower and bell tower. The interior is simple and majestic at the same time, with the peculiar staircase near the altar. The cloister is very pretty and has a good view of the tower. Very close to the city and reachable by bus as well.

Excellent welcome. And a very nice and very good little restaurant. Thank you for parking the campervan.

On an autumn day, the charm of the abbey standing out against the blue sky is remarkable.

A very beautiful and historic abbey located just outside of Milan. The abbey was constructed in the 12th century by San Bernardo of Chiaravalle. The interior exhibits Romanesque architecture and its columns and its narthex are all painted with frescos. Sadly I visited close to closing time and couldn’t stay long, but I am sure I will visit again!

A wonderful discovery, and the only downside is that I'd never been there before. Immersed in the green countryside, the bell tower is beautiful; it would be wonderful to visit it and get a glimpse of nearby Milan from above. A truly historic place. Well-maintained, with amenities, and a lovely shop. Free parking, and a bus stop right outside that quickly takes you to Milan, as well as the subway in the Porto di Mare Corvetto area.

An abbey on the outskirts of Milan, even though it feels far from the metropolis. A truly interesting church for its history and art, the cloister has been largely rebuilt but retains its original charm and spirituality. The shop sells products from various monasteries, including Grana Padano, which was born in Chiaravalle. There's also a café/restaurant. Parking is free and is on the left before reaching the abbey coming from Rogoredo.

A busy place of worship, with guided tours that are a bit rambling and a little annoying if you want a private moment with the Almighty, but I don't think the Almighty will be offended if you show off his home to groups. I don't know if the mill can be visited; the frescoes are worth contemplating for hours, each individual grain of wood. For me, it's the best abbey after the Charterhouse. I highly recommend it.

An incredibly authentic place. Not only structurally, but also spiritually.