SESTO AL REGHENA The Fascinating Bond with the Templars

Sesto al Reghena – The Fascinating Bond with the Templars

Visiting Sesto al Reghena means entering one of the most captivating places in Friuli, where history, spirituality and mystery have coexisted for more than twelve centuries.
The Abbey of Santa Maria in Sylvis, founded in the 8th century by the Lombard nobles Erfo, Anto and Marco, is a unique monastic complex: fortified, surrounded by water and rich in medieval evidence.

According to historical and iconographic sources, this place appears to be closely linked to the Knights Templar. In the portico known as the Loggetta, to the left of the entrance, there are 13th‑century frescoes depicting knightly scenes, including a duel and the figure of Charlemagne among his warriors.
These elements, together with sacred symbols and figures such as Saint Michael and Saint Benedict with the dragon, confirm the connection between the abbey and the Order of the Temple.

The structure itself reveals its defensive function: it was once protected by seven towers (only one remains today) and by a water moat surrounding the entire complex.
The water, besides being a strategic element, had a spiritual meaning: it represented “sacred defence”, purification and protection of the holy place.

Inside, the basilica preserves treasures of great value:

• emotionally powerful 14th‑century frescoes with scenes of Heaven and Hell

• the famous Urn of Saint Anastasia, a Lombard masterpiece in white marble from the 8th century

• medieval and Lombard artefacts that testify to the central role of the abbey in the history of the region

Walking through the walls, crossing the atrium, observing the frescoes of the Loggetta and listening to the silence of the cloister means living an experience that unites art, spirituality and mystery.
A place that fascinates anyone who loves medieval history, the Templars and villages that preserve an authentic soul.