Cenobitic monasteries, Italy
Andrea Frazzetta for National Geographic
Italy is a top tourist spot known for its beaches, architectural splendor, and fresh food.
But in 2025, the year of the jubilee in Rome — a religious event that happens once every 25 years in which all four of its papal Basilicas open their doors — it’s also set to become popular for its spiritual activations.
“It’s a massive year for pilgrimage,” said Grace Harrex, the lead travel writer at Monasteries.com, adding that the city will host around 40 million pilgrims.
What to do: Cenobitic monasteries are religious communities where monks or nuns live together, focusing on prayer, work, and spiritual growth.
“You can join in morning prayers, help with daily chores, and share meals with the community,” said Harrex, emphasizing that these visits are often treated as spiritual experiences rather than vacations.
Other noteworthy sites include Monte Cassino Abbey, a key pilgrimage site founded by St. Benedict, just two hours from Rome, and the Abbey of San Paolo Fuori le Mura in Rome, one of the city’s most important religious sites.
If you prefer a coastal city to Rome, the Foresteria Monastero Santissimo in Agrigento is a cenobitic community known for its architecture and proximity to the sea. “It’s a bit more flexible than some other monastic stays but still offers an authentic spiritual experience,” said Harrex.
Where to stay: Whether you’re on tour to explore the spiritual side of Italy or prefer the more popular touristy spots, Harrex recommends checking into monastic guesthouses run by nuns for a new experience. If you’re looking for affordable stays, the Casa Il Rosario, located in the center of Rome, is a great option, as is the San Giuseppe House, which offers easy access to major religious sites.
Where to eat: According to Harrex, cenobitic monasteries in Agrigento, Sicily, are known for their local produce and sweets like cannoli and granita. They also offer communal meals, which include simple, farm-sourced dishes representing their lifestyle.
When to go: Spring and fall — March through May or early September through November — are the best times to escape the scorching summer heat, said Harrex, adding that it is best to avoid summer and especially August since that’s when most people in Italy take time off, and many local businesses remain closed.
