San Michele Arcangelo, the Benedictine abbey of Montescaglioso

The Benedictine Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo is located in the historic center of Montescaglioso, in the province of Matera.

Although it was completed in 1099, the date of foundation of the monastery is precise, but it is hypothesized that it can go back to the year 893.

Two beautiful arches, through which you can see the majestic bell tower of the church, surround two equally suggestive courtyards.

The Abbey of San Michele is the most important monument in Montescaglioso and one of the most important in Basilicata. In fact, it rises on the remains of the old Italic-Hellenic city.

Of these ancient settlements remain the acropolis, as well as some urban structures and the necropolis.

Another important find is the statue of Telamone di Montescaglioso, a Hellenic male sculpture that was used as a pillar or structural support.

Going down into the basement of the monastic complex, you enter an underground environment: the ancient cellar where the monks prepared their products for the community.

Here the ceramics and vases of the past are still visible.

But there is also an oil mill, an oven and everything needed for the production and storage of food, including pots and other kitchen tools.