The man, a 52-year-old Spaniard, allegedly stole the money, in cash, from the convent's offices, where donations received over the holiday period were kept, Articolo Tre reported.
But quick-thinking nuns, upon realizing what had happened, chased after him and blocked his getaway from the building in the town of Castellato, with the help of passers-by.
During his escape attempt, the man also knocked over the 50-year-old cook, causing her a shoulder injury.
He was arrested and taken into custody on Monday night.
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