gregorian chant service in Italy

The Duomo sees some chants from 10 am to the start of Mass at 10:30, although admission is restricted. There are some better Gregorian chants at San Miniato al Monte, overlooking Florence. You can walk it, but it's quite a hike uphill....the #13 bus, I believe, will take you there from the Duomo. They do chants at vespers at 4:30 pm in the winter, and 5:30 in the summer....I'm not sure when they switch over, but probably in mid-October...the local TI should be able to tell you. It gives you a great view of Florence, and if the facade looks familiar, it should....it inspired the facade of the Duomo.

Find out if any particular religious order manages the Il Duomo. If there is one, get in touch w/their local house or monastery in your area. Tell them what you'll like to do(listening to the Liturgy of Hours in chant). Or contact the local Catholic diocese in your area. Or the Vatican embassy in Ottawa. Be patient, there are lots of bureaucrats in the Catholic Church. Personally, I think you'll have a better chance listening to the chants in active monasteries. Try Benedictine websites. Another final idea(didn't realize you'll leave so soon), go to the local Catholic Church, talk to the priest and tell him your dilemma. He should be able to give you more concrete ideas. He might do some of the legwork for you too. Another final, final idea(they keep popping up in my head!), ask around esp at the hotel desk when you're in Italy. Good luck.

vickie,
See http://www.antimo.it/pagine_en/00FRAME.html
and http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/tuscany/monte_oliveto.htm

Sant Antimo is special. But, just being there at mass time does not mean the brothers will be doing chant. Investigate before making the journey there.

Here's the Florence Duomo's liturgical schedule:
http://www.duomofirenze.it/attivita/liturgical.htm

Scott

And here's the Duomo's hours and fees for visitors:

http://www.operaduomo.firenze.it/english/opera/orari.asp

Scott