Abbazia di San Leonardo in Lama Volara

The Abbazia di San Leonardo in Lama Volara is an ancient cloister in Manfredonia, Italy. Built in the 13th century and closely associated with the Knights Templar, the cloister has been at the center of a number of historical moments. Notably, the King of Naples, Louis I of Anjou, summoned the abbot of San Leonardo and other ecclesiastical leaders from throughout the region to the cloister in 1319 and the cloister was subsequently inherited by the Prince of Taranto in 1463. Today, the Abbazia serves as an example of the Gothic-Romanesque style with an interior featuring a decorated apse, pillars and a crypt. Home to two dedications by Pope Pius II to Pope Sixtus IV, the cloister and its surrounding gardens is a peaceful haven to explore. Visitors to the Abbazia can take guided tours with a local expert, visit the crypt and also attend occasional concerts of classical and sacred music in the cloister's garden.