Holiday for the soul
Spirituality on vacation: here are the 5 most beautiful hermitages in Italy for a journey of the soul
In the midst of the frenzy of modern life, the yearning for a spiritual retreat grows ever stronger. A journey among the most beautiful hermitages in Italy is a unique opportunity to rediscover silence, peace and connection with nature. Places steeped in history and spirituality, hermitages are perfect for those seeking an escape from the daily routine and a moment of profound reflection.
Hermitage of San Francesco – Assisi
The Eremo delle Carceri, located on Mount Subasio in Assisi, is one of the most significant places in the life of St. Francis. Here the saint loved to retire to meditate in peace. This sanctuary, nestled in the greenery and in the rock, can be reached via a path in the woods, starting from Assisi. The place is open to the public and offers the opportunity to participate in moments of prayer. There is no stay for pilgrims, but the visit is a touching experience.
Hermitage of San Colombano – Trambileno
Clinging to the rock face, the Hermitage of San Colombano in Trambileno, in Trentino, can only be reached via a staircase carved into the rock of 102 steps. This place of worship, founded in 753, is an impressive tribute to human piety and ingenuity. Although it does not allow a stay, a visit to this hermitage reserves a unique experience, culminating in the extraordinary view of the Leno Valley.
Hermitage of Camaldoli – Poppi
The Camaldoli Hermitage, located in the heart of the Casentinesi Forest National Park, is immersed in a centuries-old wood. Founded in the 11th century by San Romualdo, the community of Camaldoli has given rise to a unique spiritual tradition. To reach it, you have to take the forest road that starts from Poppi, among breathtaking views. The hermitage offers the possibility of staying at the Foresteria for spiritual retreats and moments of psychophysical recovery.
Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso – Leggiuno
Perched on a wall overlooking Lake Maggiore, the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso is one of the most evocative places in Lombardy. Reachable on foot or with a comfortable lift, it offers the quiet of the hermitage, its frescoed chapels and the panoramic view of the lake. Although it is not possible to stay overnight, a visit to this marvel is an unforgettable experience, and which has recently been made even more accessible even for those with mobility difficulties, thanks to the modern lift.
Hermitage of Montesiepi – Chiusdino
In the heart of Tuscany, the Hermitage of Montesiepi in Chiusdino preserves one of the most powerful symbols of Christian spirituality: the sword in the stone of San Galgano. The small round hermitage, enriched by the presence of the nearby Abbey of San Galgano of which only the perimeter walls are preserved (the roof hasn't been there for hundreds of years), can be easily reached by car from nearby Siena. Although it does not offer the possibility of staying, the place has an extraordinary charm and represents an essential stop for those seeking an authentic contact with medieval spirituality.
