The entire complex was at one time one of the largest monasteries in Italy, occupying what today can be measured only in "city blocks". Urban renewal from the 1930s literally built around the old premises, leaving much of the original structure standing in the center.
At one time, this complex was a major monastery in Italy, covering a vast area that today corresponds to several city blocks.  Urban development during the 1930s encircled the former monastery, with much of its original structure remaining intact in the center.