L’abbaziale di Santa Maria di Fontelaurato: cronologia, architettura e inquadramento nell’ambito delle prime fondazioni florensi

The paper addresses the medieval phase of the abbey of Santa Maria di Fontelaurato, an important florians foundation. By analyzing documentary sources, it has been possible to more precisely define the construction period of the monastery. The autoptic examination of the building has also contributed decisively to clarifying some essential aspects for its understanding and its placement within the architectural culture 13th-century. Particularly revealing in this regard have been the examination of the original function of the elevated spaces, which overlook the central crossing through small windows, and the reconstruction of the complex lighting system in the presbyterial area.The study of the church and the reconstruction of its medieval morphology, when considered alongside chronological data, have allowed for comparisons with other florians architectural works. This has led to a more precise understanding of the role played by this particular structure. Thanks to recent studies on the abbey of San Giovanni in Fiore, the motherhouse of the order, this structure can no longer be viewed simply as a modest adaptation of the San Giovanni model constrained by earlier structures. Instead, it emerges as an important architectural precursor for the later development of San Giovanni’s church.