Abbazia di San Fruttuoso

"The Abbey was renovated, donated to FAI and opened to the public in 1983. San Fruttuoso Abbey is a Romanesque religious building located in a secluded bay in the Italian Riviera near Genoa, between Camogli and Portofino, The abbey used to be under the patronage of the Genoese aristocratic Doria family, who protected it with a watchtower built by the architect Giovanni Ponzello in 1562. The easiest and most practical way to reach San Fruttuoso is by sea, with boats that leave all year round from Camogli. Boats that sail from Genoa, Portofino, Santa Margherita, Rapallo, Chiavari, Recco, and Sestri Levante also enter service in the summer months. The most practical train station to reach San Fruttuoso is undoubtedly that of Camogli-San Fruttuoso which is only 500 meters from the pier from which the boats leave. To get to San Fruttuoso on foot, you can follow various paths in the Portofino Natural Park. All the itineraries are well cared for and served by signs and signs. But be careful not to underestimate the effort and commitment required: it is necessary to use suitable shoes, sunscreen and above all keep in mind that the route takes place mainly downhill on the outward journey, but presents an exhausting climb on the way back. One solution could be to book a return to Camogli by vaporetto, but this obviously takes away half the pleasure of this beautiful ride. It is not possible to reach San Fruttuoso by car."

"The abbey was founded in the 10th century by Benedictine monks who were fleeing from Saracen raids. The monks built the abbey on a site that had been previously used as a pagan sanctuary. The abbey quickly became an important pilgrimage site, and it was also a center for learning and culture. In the 12th century, the abbey was granted a number of privileges by the Holy Roman Emperor, and it became even more wealthy and powerful. However, the abbey began to decline in the 16th century, and it was eventually abandoned in the 18th century."

"The focal point of San Fruttoso is the ancient Abbey of San Fruttoso di Capodimonte, a historic monastery dating back to the 10th century. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the azure waters of the Ligurian Sea, the abbey offers a serene setting for contemplation and exploration. "