Among Italy’s countless wonders, there is a charming place in the province of Macerata, region Marche, surrounded by untouched nature, a perfect spot to relax and recover your balance. It’s the Chiaravalle Abbey in Fiastra, well renown for its natural reserve which encloses a delightful environment, but also a unique historic, artistic and archeological heritage.
I had the chance to visit this marvellous land, and I hope one day you will see with your eyes what I’m about to describe to you. This corner of Italy will enchant you with its extraordinary beauty.
Chiaravalle Abbey Natural Reserve
Close your eyes and imagine to be surrounded by such an astonishing nature you can clearly feel its soul. Every item, from the leave to the cute little birds, has a strong spiritual side. This was the feeling I had while visiting the natural reserve of the abbey, a wonderful place to spend some time with family and friends. But also a comprehensive project for environmental protection and safeguard, research and education.
The reserve is divided in several sections: La Selva is an oak wood stretching over 100 hectares and hosting deers, martens, badgers and porcupines. Il Laghetto and Le Vene are humid and and very lush. I Campi Coltivati – ‘the farmed fields’ – are an exceptional example of combined farming, cultural and tourist activities.
Chiaravalle Abbey in Fiastra
If a walk in the natural reserve may make you feel lighter and at peace, in the abbey the same feeling is even stronger.
Established in 1142 by the Cistercian order of Milan, the abbey was built using the material from the nearby Roman city Urbs Salvia, which today is an archeological park. Today the huge church and the beautiful cloister are open to the public. The latter links the different rooms where the friars’ daily life is spent: the capital hall, where they listen to the sacred readings; the cellars, which host a Wine Museum with ancient relics and tools; the refectory, where some splendid capitals coming from Urbs Salvia are displayed.
To discover the real beauty of this place you just have to come here and experience by yourself, allow its atmospheres and its magic to abduct you. Just another good reason to discover Marche, an incredible and rich region of my beloved Italy.