Abbey of the Three Fountains

Abbazia delle Tre Fontane (Abbey of the Three Fountains) is an abbey in Rome, located between the EUR and the Ostiense district, in a little valley on the old Via Laurentina road. 

In this area, legend says that Apostle Paul was beheaded by Emperor Nero’s order. His head struck the earth in three different places in which fountains sprang forth.

The Abbey

In 1140, Pope Innocent II had the church restored, repaired and rebuilt according to the usages of the order.

There are three separate sanctuaries belonging to the monastery, named:

• Church of St. Paul the Apostle
• Santa Maria Scala Coeli

These two were built on existing buildings and then restored in the late 16th century.

• Church of Saint Vincent and Saint Anastasius – This is the oldest of the three churches. It was built in 626 by order of Pope Honorius I.

The abbey was richly endowed, particularly by the Arch of Charlemagne, which became the gateway to the abbey.

Traditional products made by the Trappist monks

The abbey is run by the Cistercian monks belonging to the Trappist order. The monks produce food and drinks according to the ancient tradition, including alcoholic beverages based on eucalyptus and gentian, honey, jams, olive oils and a delicious chocolate. The revenues are used to support the community and the artistic heritage of the abbey complex. You can buy the products in the shop inside the abbey.

Guests

According to the rules of St. Benedict, guests are welcome and can also join the Holy Mass. Although, reservation is required for guests who want to stay for spiritual nights.

Booking can be done by calling:  349 28 98 576

Visiting hours

The abbey is open from 6:30 to 12:30 in the morning and afternoon 15:00 to 20:30 (15:30 to 20:30 on Sundays)