Palazzo della Commenda

Just a few minutes off the Via Emilia, between Fiorenzuola d'Arda and Alseno, immersed in the countryside and positioned in a precise checkerboard of green allotments plotted according to ancient land-partitioning methods, a red blur can be seen: Chiaravalle della Colomba Abbey. The basilica and cloister are a masterpiece of brickwork and Cistercian art, a speciality of the friars of the Saint Bernardino order. The hotel is about 26 km from the centre of Piacenza, and the nearest train station is roughly 6 km away in Fiorenzuola d'Arda.

Built in the 13th century, this stately home was the residence of the Commendatore, who was the abbot - the administrator in charge of the abbey's wealth and belongings. The restoration of the premises was completed in the year 2000, strictly utilising materials that were available in the 13th century. It has been successfully transformed into a hotel, restaurant and convention centre. In the centre of the complex itself, an ancient rustic courtyard can be found. A large patio has been created, divided by 4 flower beds, and off to one side is the tourist information centre. There are 15 rooms in total, and the complex provides air conditioning, a lobby with 24-hour reception and check-out service, a hotel safe, currency exchange facilities, lift access, a bar, a TV lounge, conference facilities and WLAN Internet access. Room and laundry services are on offer as well, and guests may make use of the hotel's bicycle hire service and parking garage. Additionally, there is a kids' club for younger guests.