When you walk from the access tower towards the Abbey of Monte Oliveto shortly afterwards, among the cypress trees, you come across a structure resembling a swimming pool surrounded by terracotta walls.
It is surprising to discover that it is something very functional to the survival needs of the monastic community, even dating back to 1533.
It is a fishpond, from which you can stock up on fresh fish and, if necessary, water.
Two thoughts on this:
Already then there was the awareness that even a poor diet like that of the friars had a periodic need for fish foods.
The importance of the widespread collection of rainwater, in a location far from natural sources, such as that of the monastery.
When you walk from the access tower towards the Abbey of Monte Oliveto shortly afterwards, among the cypress trees, you come across a structure resembling a swimming pool surrounded by terracotta walls.
It is surprising to discover that it is something very functional to the survival needs of the monastic community, even dating back to 1533.
It is a fishpond, from which you can stock up on fresh fish and, if necessary, water.
Two thoughts on this:
Already then there was the awareness that even a poor diet like that of the friars had a periodic need for fish foods.
The importance of the widespread collection of rainwater, in a location far from natural sources, such as that of the monastery.