Beneventan Minuscule

Beneventan Minuscule developed in the 8th century in central and southern Italy. It is characterized by the use of ligatures or connecting strokes between letters. It also employs the contrast between very thick and very thin strokes.

This script is rare and was based at the monastery of Monte Cassino.  This monastery held the body of St. Benedict the founder of Western Monasticism.  The monastery is situated on top of a mountain and has views of the surrounding area. During World War II, the German army placed anti-aircraft guns inside the monastery.  The Allied powers bombed these guns, which in turn destroyed the monastery and the monastery's library.