We saw at the Bargello the remains of a wonderful frieze by Benedetto da Rovezzano for the tomb of the founder of the order, S.Giovanni Gualberto; we shall see at S.Miniato scenes in the saint's life on the site of the ancient chapel where the crucifix bent and blessed him.

As the head of the monastery Gualberto was famous for the severity and thoroughness of his discipline.

But though a martinet as an abbot, personally he was humble and mild.

His advice on all kinds of matters is said to have been invited even by kings and popes.

He invented the system of lay brothers to help with the domestic work of the convent; and after a life of holiness, which comprised several miracles, he died in 1073 and was subsequently canonized.
The monastery, as I have said, is now secularized, save for the chapel, where three resident monks perform service.