PADULA Charterhouse private tour: a hidden gem in south of Italy (Unesco)

Embark on a journey to the heart of one of Italy’s most magnificent architectural treasures: the Certosa di San Lorenzo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. As the largest monastery in Italy and one of the largest in Europe, this extraordinary complex spans an impressive 51,500 square meters (12.7 acres) and boasts over 320 rooms and halls. Rich in history, art, and spirituality, the Certosa invites you to immerse yourself in centuries of culture and craftsmanship.

A Journey Through History

The construction of the Certosa began in the 1300s at the request of Count Sanseverino. Built on the site of a former Benedictine church dedicated to San Lorenzo, the monastery embodies the enduring legacy of devotion and artistic achievement. Its transformation through the centuries includes breathtaking Baroque additions from the late 1500s and its evolution under Carthusian monks until the order’s suppression by Napoleon. Today, the monastery houses the Provincial Archaeological Museum of Western Lucania, ensuring its history continues to inspire future generations.

Highlights of the Guided Tour

• The Entrance Hall and Cloister of the Guesthouse: Begin your visit in this tranquil space, where the beauty of the architecture sets the tone for the wonders to come.
• The Church: Step into a world of opulence with Neapolitan Baroque-style decorations, golden stucco embellishments, and intricate majolica floors. Admire the stunning marble altars and let your gaze wander to the remarkable 16th-century wooden choir of the Fathers, adorned with exquisite inlays.
• The Hall of the Bells, Chapter Room, and Treasury: Each space reveals intricate craftsmanship and rich historical significance, showcasing the profound spiritual and artistic dedication of its creators.
• The Great Refectory: Marvel at the grandeur of this vast dining hall, highlighted by the fresco of the Wedding at Cana by Francesco d’Elia.
• The Kitchen: A delightful surprise awaits as you visit the monastery’s kitchen, featuring a massive central hood and charming majolica tile decorations that offer a glimpse into the culinary traditions of the monks.
• The Cloisters: Wander through the Cloister of the Prior and the expansive Central Cloister, where peace and harmony resonate in every arch and column.
• The Monumental Elliptical Staircase: The tour concludes with this architectural marvel, a striking spiral staircase that embodies elegance and ingenuity, leaving a lasting impression on every visitor.

Why Visit the Certosa di San Lorenzo?

• Architectural Masterpiece: Discover a harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles in one monumental complex.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Dive deep into the history of the Benedictine and Carthusian monks and their enduring impact on art, architecture, and spirituality.
• Unforgettable Art and Craftsmanship: From frescoes to inlaid woodwork, every detail is a celebration of artistic excellence.

The Certosa di San Lorenzo is more than a monastery—it’s a journey through time, a window into the soul of Italian heritage, and an experience that will leave you inspired and awestruck.

Book your guided tour today and let the timeless beauty of Padula captivate your heart.

 

Included:

• Walking tour with licensed tour guide

Not included:

• Tickets entry
• Food and drinks
• Transfer service

What to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• Water
• Sun hat on hot days

Meeting point:

• Outside ticket office (next the staircase entry)