Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore

The approach to the abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore is through thick cypresses, with stunning views of eroded cliffs and sheer drops to the valley floor. It was founded in 1313 by the Olivetan order, who were dedicated to restoring the simplicity of Benedictine monastic rule. The 15th-century rose-pink abbey church is a Baroque building with outstanding choir stalls of inlaid wood.
Alongside is the Great Cloister (1427-74), whose walls are covered by a cycle of frescoes on the life of St. Benedict, begun by Luca Signorelli. a pupil of Piero della Francesca, in 1495. He completed nine panels; the remaining 27 were finished by Sodoma in 1508. The cycle, which begins on the east wall with Benedict's early life, is considered a masterpiece of fresco painting for its combination of architectural and naturalistic detail.