Abbey of Santa Maria de Olearia in Maiori
The Abbey of Santa Maria de Olearia is an extraordinary example of medieval architecture and art located along the famous Amalfi Coast State Road, about 4 km from the center of Maiori, in the heart of the Amalfi Coast. Nestled in a natural rocky cliff with a panoramic view of the sea, the abbey represents a place rich in history and spirituality, appreciated not only for its artistic value but also for its unique environmental setting.
History and Architecture
Its foundation dates back to between 973 and 987, when the hermit monk Pietro, together with his nephew Giovanni, obtained permission from Bishop Leone II of Amalfi to build a monastery dedicated to Santa Maria. The name "de Olearia" derives from the presence of an oil mill for the production of oil in the surroundings, a sign of a community strongly connected to nature and local resources. Over the centuries, the abbey evolved from a simple hermitage to an important Benedictine abbey, which reached its peak between the 11th and 12th centuries.
The complex is developed on multiple levels, with three superimposed chapels, each characterized by frescoes that depict sacred stories and reflect the artistic evolution of the early Middle Ages in Campania. Among these stand out:
- The crypt, located about ten meters from the road, with 10th-century frescoes depicting saints and sacred scenes, attributed to the Benedictine monk Leone Amalfitano.
- The main chapel, built in 1110, decorated with splendid frescoes of the Annunciation, the Visitation, and the Nativity, created with particular attention to detail and color.
- The chapel of St. Nicholas, on the upper floor, which narrates episodes from the saint’s life, with special attention to his intercession for sailors during storms.
Cultural Value and Visit
Besides its artistic importance, the Abbey of Santa Maria de Olearia has played a significant role in spreading culture and spirituality in the region, hosting monks of various religious traditions such as Benedictines, Basilians, and Cluniacs. In 1580, the complex was incorporated into the Chapter of the Amalfi Cathedral, beginning a period of decline that ended with the abandonment of the site. Only in the 19th century were important restorations started, which brought the abbey's ancient splendor back to light.
Today the Abbey can be visited at set times, offering a unique experience for those wishing to immerse themselves in the history of the Amalfi Coast. Its cliffside position overlooking the sea and the mystical atmosphere that permeates the frescoed walls make this place a must-see destination for lovers of medieval art, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes.
