The complex of the Monastery of Saint Benedict was built at the site of the Sacred Cave, the grotto where the Saint lived in penance and contemplation (6th century). Above the cave, at the end of the 12th century, the Lower Church was constructed with the original core of the Monastery; even higher up, around the mid-14th century, the Upper Church was added. The Monastery of Saint Benedict and the nearby Monastery of Saint Scholastica form a complex of great religious and artistic significance, set in a framework of notable natural value as well (it lies within the Regional Park of the Simbruini Mountains).
Entering the monastery, on the right side of the imposing arch that leads visitors from the parking lot to the monastic complex, you will notice engraved on the wall (though quite worn) the Seal of Saint Benedict in an oval form, instead of the classic circular shape. This emblem, whose invention is attributed to the famous saint of Norcia, holds powerful properties of exorcism and protection.
The same seal, of finer craftsmanship, can be found engraved on a marble plaque inside the monastery, along the wall of the staircase descending towards the lower church, where the Saint’s cave is located. There are also others, naturally, scattered throughout the complex, as in many other places of worship that are or have been Benedictine. A dedicated page and an image gallery about this important seal can be found in the symbolism section.
Information about the Monastery of Saint Benedict Sacred Cave
Piazzale Saint Benedict
Subiaco (Rome)
077485039
pm-laz@beniculturali.it
https://www.polomusealelazio.beniculturali.it/index.php?it/262/monastero-di-san-benedetto-sacro-speco
Source: MIBACT
