Tuscany: Gregorian chants at Sant'Antimo - done?

I can't answer that question, but if you want to attend vespers where they celebrate in Gregorian Chant, go to Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore (http://www.monteolivetomaggiore.it/lang1/). It's not that far from Siena.

We toured the monastery in the afternoon. There's a little restaurant on the grounds where we had a wonderful dinner. We then went to vespers.

We sat in the temporary seats on the floor of the chapel. A monk came up and moved us to the seats where the monks sit. He gave us the "hymnals" and showed us the order of worship and where to turn when. We were encouraged to join in the responses. There was only one other "civilian" there, a lady who lives nearby and attends regularly.

It was a magical evening.

Doug, this sounds like a wonderful experience. We have a day trip to Sienna planed from Florence. Wondering if we can tie this in as well. Sounds like it may be worth it.

I hope that is not the case. If it is, this will be the first time in over 1200 years that there will be no monks in residence.

We were there in 2006, and accidently stumbled onto the abbey. The setting is gorgeous. With the church situated in a small valley surrounded by vinyards and olive trees. Sitting there in that ancient church listening to the Gregorian Chants, it was an other-worldly experience. If you're in the Montalcino area this is a must-visit. Vespers are 8 times daily.

We have done vespers at Monte Oliveto Maggiore and also the chants at Sant'Antimo. Both are lovely. There are also chants at San Miniato in Florence each evening, also lovely. Perhaps the most moving was the vesper service at San Damiano in Assisi at the little church where Francis received his call.

The setting of Sant'Antimo is stunning; the chant service involves a handful of monks and is thus not entirely impressive as music but it is nice to be in the old church and hear it. No photos are allowed during the service.

Monte Oliveto Maggiore has interesting noted art and also vends products brewed and made by the monks. The drive there is magnificent; some of the prettiest territory in Tuscany.

Either of these is well worth the trip.

In looking to do a tour with a stop here and other places. we were told by the tour company Sant’Antimo which is near Montalcino there are no longer chants because the monks left the Monastery.

NJMOM, thats pretty much the same conclusion I came to after more research. Looks like I'll be attending mass at Monte Oliveto Maggiore to hear the chanting there. Ironically enough, I happened to enter Sant'Antimo about 4 years ago, RIGHT after the service concluded and I missed it then too. Ugh!

Do they still do the chants at Monte Oliveto Maggiore ?

Apparently so! Cant wait to attend!

When are you going? We are going in November.