In 1034 a donation given by a certain Stefano Germano of Poggio allowed the building of the Abbey at "Portonovo" where already traces of an ancient church were. However is surprisingly beautiful, built with the white stones of Cònero is for its harmonious and elegant shape, the most genuine example of Romanesque architecture. The life of this monastery came to a sudden end due to the subsidence of Monte Cònero. All that is left today is the church of Santa Maria which no longer has a bell tower or a monastery.
Its extraordinary beauty with its Greek cross is a combination of architectural elements of Byzantine origin and the expertise of Lombardan architects.
The church is situated in Portonovo, just in the panoramic part of the Mount Conero beside the sea. It is one of the most important monument of the riviera.
