We went on an Olive Oil  tour not really realizing we would be spending almost two hours learning, in Italian, about a local church.  L'Abbazia Benedettina di San Felice is the most important church in the Giano area and was erected by the Benedictines over the spot where the bishop Felice was martyred, in an isolated and dominant position.  It's considered a place where history, faith and culture meet.

The founding of the abbey complex dates back to 950 AD, while the present-day church may be dated to the early 12th century (considered a masterpiece of Romanesque art).  In 1452, due to its state of decay, restoration work was begun, which was completed in 1481. In the 16th century the interior received Renaissance additions.  Our guide was very enthusiastic and the information given was very detailed.

Why was an abbey on an olive oil tour?  The trees, established by the Romans, were preserved by the monks during the darkest days of barbaric invasions.  It all makes sense to me now!