Santo Spirito Abbey – Villa Giannone

The former Abbey of Santo Spirito stands in Comignago, a village in the Novara area not far from Lake Maggiore. It is an elegant setting for important events.

The history of Comignago has always been linked to its abbey, whose origins go back to Roman times. After the fall of the Roman Empire it became the property of the Umiliati monks, who were probably responsible for building the elegant, imposing tower (1282) which is still a landmark in the village, with its fine double lancet windows and Lombard bands.

During the 14^th century the Order of the Umiliati developed new techniques for processing wool, becoming nothing short of a financial power, and turning what had previously been a place of work and prayer into a luxurious, opulent court. Irritated by the monks’ worldly behaviour, San Carlo Borromeo decreed a fundamental reform of the Order, which was however overturned by Pope Pius V in 1571. Beginning at the end of the 18^th century, the monastery complex was disbanded and sold to private individuals.

Today the former Abbey, now known as Villa Giannone, is the elegant setting for events such as weddings, gala dinners, working lunches, meetings and photo sessions. Extensive grounds, Italian-style gardens, flowerbeds and mature trees make this corner of history a perfect place for creating new memories.