The first stop on the itinerary is the Benedictine Abbey of Cava de’ Tirreni, known as the Badia di Cava, located in the locality of Corpo di Cava. Visiting this place of prayer is like embarking on a fascinating journey through millennia of history.
Upon arrival at the Benedictine abbey, the initial impression is that it is not very large. However, a side view reveals the full grandeur of this structure perched on the mountainside.
The abbey was founded by Saint Alferius Pappacarbone in 1011, who had retired to a hermitic life in the Arsicia cave at the base of Monte Finestra. From that cave, the monastery quickly expanded, and in 1092 the basilica was consecrated by Pope Urban II.
The basilica is open to visitors, and it is highly recommended to take the guided tour. During the visit, you can explore both the new part of the basilica and the old part, which features the crypt and catacombs. Inside, there is a museum displaying the abbey’s ecclesiastical treasures, as well as the library and archive, renowned worldwide for their ancient manuscripts and preserved works.
All information is available on the Badia di Cava website.
