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As you might imagine, this region abounds with holy houses. Many offer hospitality to guests (also see Monasteries of the Sacred Valley), and this can be a low-cost, unique way to experience your stay. There are some rules to follow, however. Start the "booking" process well in advance. You can try writing, but telephoning is always more effective (and if you know a priest or bishop, don't hesitate to mention him). Be very clear about what kind of accommodation you will receive: some monasteries have private or even double cells, while others have only dormitory rooms. Ask whether you need to bring your own bedding and towels (Devo portare la biancheria?). Once you are there, remember that you are in a house of God. Assume nothing, as many places have very strict rules about speaking, fraternizing and attending Mass.

The best rule of thumb for a convent stay is to approach it as a spiritual experience. If you do, your expectations will not fail you.

• Abbazia di Santa Maria di Farfa. What a beautiful place this is! From the minute you see it stretched out along the hillside in the distance, you understand how it was one of the papacy's most important sanctuaries in the Middle Ages. As you get closer to the delightful hill town of Farfa, you'll realize the abbey retains a mere shadow of its former glory, and only four monks now reside there. Be sure to take the guided tour of the church (9-12 a.m. and 3:30-6 p.m.), and to see the beautiful cloisters and the magnificent library which houses 20,000 rare volumes. A group of nuns preside over the guest house, which has 30 rooms ranging from single cells to family suites.
  

• Abbazia di Casamari. This 12th-century complex in Veroli is one of the best preserved examples of Gothic architecture in Italy. Unlike Farfa, this Cistercian monastery is hidden in a heavily wooded valley. The many resident monks sell homemade liqueurs and herbs, and happily take visitors on guided tours of their lodgings; you can visit the church on your own. Guests stay in two buildings, one for those who wish to participate more fully in monastic life and the other for those who merely seek some peace and quiet. Reservations are required; call 39-0775-332371.
  
  

• Abbazia delle Tre Fontane. On the outskirts of Rome near the Appian Way, this secluded abbey was supposedly built on the spot where the Apostle Paul was martyred. Beloved of Charlemagne, it now belongs to the Trappists, who observe strict silence and sell a delicious liqueur made from their own eucalyptus trees. The adjacent guest house can accommodate up to 10 men, who may take their meals and attend Mass with the monks. tel. 39-06-540-1655.

Convents offering hospitality throughout Italy, including Rome, Florence and Venice, are listed in our newsletter.

[Regions of Italy]

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