The Benedictine Olivetan Abbey of Saints Nicola and Paolo VI is certainly the most famous religious complex of Franciacorta.

Its foundation dates back to 1090, on commission of the Cluniac monks and , indeed, it is part of the European Cluniac itinerary.

It became property of the Olivetans in 1446. It was reconstructed between 1450 and 1534, when it became a Renaissance Abbey. Very important painters from Brescia such as Gambara, Romanino, Moretto, Da Marone and Cossali contributed to its transformation. The Napoleonic laws suppressed it in 1797, but in 1969 – upon the will of Pope Paolo VI – a great work of restoration started, which saw the return of the Olivetans.

The church dates back to 1480-90. The inside, with a single aisle, shows a rich 18th century decoration. There is an oil painting by Moretto from 1545 and beautiful wooden inlay work on the choir stalls. Among the frescoes of major importance, the Crucifixion on the wall at the back of the big refectory, of Floriano Ferramola’s school, and the hall frescoed by Gambara. The frescoes by Romanino, are found in the new “foresteria”.

There are three cloisters, of various widths and styles. The smallest one(Chiostro della “Porta”), is the oldest one. The “Big” Cloister has a porch and an arcade majolica decorations. The one known as the “Cisterna” dates back to the late Renaissance period.

A place particularly dear to Pope Paul VI, in February 2019 the Abbey was officially named after him.

In November 2023, a tour of the Abbey was inaugurated as part of the project “The hidden treasures of Rodengo Saiano: local cultural and historical heritage as a value for everyone”. Eight information totems accompany the visitor to discover the Abbey among altars, frescoes, cloisters and works of art.

For groups compulsory reservations tel. +39 030610182 – [email protected]

Free Admission