This content was automatically translated. View the original text.
Abbey of St Mary of the Plain: the Benedictine monastery in the Muzia Valley
The Abbey of Santa Maria del Piano is a ruin located in the Muzia Valley, nestled in the woods near Sezze. Its white stone Romanesque façade still stands, along with the bell tower. The remaining friezes, capitals, and inscriptions are enough to convey the historical significance of the site.
One of the most important Benedictine abbeys in medieval Lazio
Founded in the 9th century, it was expanded in 1219, and again in the mid-14th century. The abbey held sway over surrounding castles, and is believed to have possessed a certain monetary power in certain periods. In 1513, Pope Leo X converted it into a secular abbey, removing it from monastic rule. This marked the beginning of its decline, leading to its definitive closure in 1809. Today, it is an archaeological site.
The Legend of Charlemagne
A local tradition, though lacking historical evidence, links the site to King Charlemagne. According to legend, while travelling to Rome for his imperial coronation, he defeated the Saracens on this plain, and commissioned the abbey’s construction as a vow (ex-voto) to the Virgin Mary.
