Camaldoli, founded a thousand years ago by Saint Romuald, is a community of Benedictine monks.
Its distinctive feature is that, even after a millennium, it remains a place of monastic life and the search for God, realized in two different yet united structures: a hermitage and a monastery. Immersed in the peace of the forest, they represent two fundamental dimensions of the monastic experience: solitude and communion.
Hermitage
Originally from Ravenna and a Benedictine monk at Sant’Apollinare in Classe, Saint Romuald had founded many hermit communities before arriving in Camaldoli around the year 1025. Here, inspired by the spirituality of the Desert Fathers, he built 5 cells and a small oratory, which formed the first nucleus of the hermitage. Subsequently, 15 cells were added to the original structure.
In addition to the cells, the hermitage complex now consists of communal buildings housing the library, refectory, a small guesthouse, and spaces for groups, meetings, and personal prayer.
Monastery
Some time after the founding of the hermitage, the monastery was established 3 kilometers farther down the valley, initially serving as a bulwark for the hermitage’s silence and solitude.
In the monastery, while also living in solitude, the monks experience fraternal life and communion. This dimension of existence is also expressed in welcoming guests. Over time, programs of cultural and spiritual formation have emerged, which today constitute one of the community’s monks’ principal commitments.
Throughout the year, particularly during the summer, the community offers programs (one-week or weekend) focused on biblical, liturgical and theological formation, ecumenical and interreligious dialogue, spirituality (spiritual exercises and retreats), and engagement with contemporary culture. Some programs are aimed particularly at young people.
In addition to participating in conferences and spiritual programs, it is also possible to stay as a guest for personal or group retreats and periods of rest, sharing in the community’s liturgical prayer.
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To learn about the Sanctuary
Sacred Hermitage of Camaldoli
52014 Camaldoli – Arezzo
tel +39 0575 556021
fax +39 0575 556001
eremo@camaldoli.it
Camaldoli Monastery
52014 Camaldoli – Arezzo
tel +39 0575 556012
fax +39 0575 556001
monastero@camaldoli.it
How to get there the Sanctuary
Hospitality contacts
Hermitage Guesthouse
Camaldoli Hermitage
52014 Camaldoli (AR)
tel + 39 0575 556021 / 556044
Monastery Guesthouse
Camaldoli Monastery
52014 Camaldoli (AR)
Secretariat
(for bookings and information:
Monday to Friday
hours 9.00-12.30 / 14.30-18.30)
tel + 39 0575 556013
fax + 39 0575 556001
foresteria@camaldoli.it
