The abbey was built, by the will of the Doria family, in the thirteenth century on the southern side of an older building of which the cloister and a few other elements remain. During the course of history the building underwent several important structural changes such as the addition of a floor in 1100. In the 16th century the square-shaped watchtower was built instead, which stands out over the bay. Particularly interesting is the Byzantine dome decorated with 17 small stone arches and the large octagonal tower. The abbey was later abandoned by the monks and used as a residence.