Abbey of Saints Rufinus and Vitalis

An hystorical Abbey not know to all, but it is worth the visit. Has been recently restored with important structural works and innovative solutions. A little jewel, from XII century.

The Abbey of Saints Vitale and Ruffino was built in the mid-11th century. on the remains of a crypt of the sixth century. On the south side we find the convent on two floors which encloses a central courtyard and the large quadrangular bell tower built in the thirteenth century. which connects the convent with the religious building. The church, built in Romanesque style, has undergone constant restorations over the centuries that have partially canceled its original form. The simple and linear facade. The interior is divided into three naves. The walls decorated with a series of 15th century frescoes that give enormous value and a remarkable visual impact. The presbytery is slightly elevated compared to the rest of the church due to the Romanesque crypt below, which is accessed via two stairways located at the end of the aisles. The crypt, excavated in the sandstone and with cross vaults, is divided into five naves and, on the walls, some dry paintings and a pictorial cycle of the late imperial period with figures of saints or dead are still visible

I am sorry to give two stars because it is not open to the public, therefore without being able to judge the architectural, historical, cultural, artistic beauty, other !? Yes, of course, but if everything looks well restored on the outside, why is it closed to the public? At 11 on a Sunday morning. Sin.

Splendid church renovated after the 2016 earthquake. In the crypt, the caretaker took us under the tomb of s. Ruffino protector against hernia and also showed us the hypogeum dating back to the pagan era. Highly recommended

August 19th is for me a traditional festival not to be missed in San Ruffino