Abbey of San Gerolamo

The Abbey of San Gerolamo is a Catholic place of worship in Genoa's Quarto dei Mille district, serving as a parish church within the Archdiocese of Genoa. Its history began during the Western Schism when Hieronymite monks, exiled from Spain for opposing Antipope Clement VII, settled in Genoa with papal permission to build a monastery dedicated to Saint Jerome. Alfonso Pecha, confessor to Saint Bridget of Sweden, identified the site, and the monks purchased land on December 18, 1383.

Construction progressed with aid from alms and Benedictine contributions, but early challenges reduced the community to two monks. Olivetan Benedictines later revitalized the abbey, which became a significant religious center by 1535. Influential families like the Spinolas contributed to its growth, adding chapels such as the oratory chapel funded by Nicola Da Passano.

The abbey's architecture features a Latin cross plan with three naves and a Gothic style, though transformations over time have altered its original modest design. Political turmoil in 1797 led to the monks' expulsion by Napoleon’s forces, returning briefly until 1855 laws forced their permanent departure. The site then served as a hospital before restoration in 1933.

In 1944, Count Gerolamo Gaslini acquired the abbey for the Giannina Gaslini Institute, leading to its reestablishment as a parish in 1958 under Cardinal Siri. Capuchin friars managed it until 1984, when diocesan priests took over. The abbey’s history reflects transitions from monastic life to healthcare and back to religious service, preserving its role in Genoa's community.