Mirteto, the ghost Monastery

Mirteto is a little abandoned monastic settlement placed on the Monte Pisani. The settlement is placed on the slope of the Conserva mountain, above the Asciano village. The settlement includes a church built in the XII century in Romanesque style. The church is dedicated to Saint Mary of Mirteto. The church is actually now a ruin, but the walls and the altar are well preserved. The settlement also includes other buildings, including dwellings, bakeries and cellars. These buildings are  unstable and access is strictly forbidden.

The presence of the Mirteto settlement is documented from 1150. Its origins are still unknown, but the presence of Cistercian monks has been proved to be before 1227. The name "Mirteto" originate from the presence of myrtle plants (Mirto in Italian), that used to surround the monastery.

This fascinating place is a wonderful panoramic viewpoint, enjoy the view on the Monti Pisani and on the surrounding plain!

How to reach Mirteto:

To reach Asciano from Pisa it is possible to use the cycle path placed along the Medicean Acqueduct (Acquedotto Mediceo). Once arrived in Asciano go up to the church. Here turn right and follow via Barachini up to its end. Proceed on the left following via Martiri della Liberazione. The path starts at the end of this road. Proceeding along the path you will at first reach the "casa del cloratore" and shortly after the so-called "Cisternone". The function of this building was to store the water when it was too turbid, due to major meteorological events. Shortly after the Cisternone there is a small bridge and a signpost indicating several paths. Follow the path on the left (so you need to cross the small bridge). The climb is not very long (around one hour) but still quite steep.

How to reach Mirteto (link in Italian)