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In the immediate surroundings of Milan is one of the first and most important Cistercian abbeys, founded in 1135 by St. Bernard, abbot of Clairvaux (in Italian: Chiaravalle). Here in this area once called Rovegnano, the Cistercian monks created one of their most vital centres from both a religious and an artistic standpoint. After having drained what was then marshland, they built a splendid architectural complex on the spot, of which only the church is still standing today. Looking at it from afar it makes a splendid impression with its simple form, sturdy buttresses, and drum, out of which rises the soaring 14th century tower, with its lively contrast of white arches against red brick.
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Western Europe
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