Corbara Monastery
The Brothers of Saint John are delighted to welcome you to northern Corsica on the Island of Beauty in their monastery near Île Rousse!
Nestled in the Balagne region, Saint Dominic Monastery is a place of renewal, tranquility, and prayer for those who come. Whether for an "independent" retreat, a time of rest, or as a group, the doors of the guest house are warmly open to you!
Retreats organized by the community
The history of Corbara Monastery in Corsica
In the 15th century, Bishop Nicolas Savelli of Tino built an orphanage on the site of a former abbey. This place was transformed into a Franciscan monastery in 1456 and remained so for three centuries until the French Revolution of 1789, which ended the religious presence. The religious were expelled and the premises were pillaged.
From 1856 to 1860, Fathers Besson and Bourard, Dominicans, rehabilitated the building, which consisted of only the church, its bell tower, and the wing overlooking the Aregno plain. In 1861, Father Cormier was appointed prior and would later be elected Master General of the Dominican Order. He was beatified in 1994 by Pope John Paul II.
The monastery became a formation center in 1884 and welcomed more than 80 Dominicans. In 1903, the religious were expelled again and the monastery became the property of the commune of Corbara. During World War I, it housed up to 800 German and Austro-Hungarian civilian internees.
In 1927, the Dominicans returned and the monastery once again became a retreat center. In 1986, a fire devastated the west wing of the building. In 1992, the last two Dominicans left the monastery, making way for the Brothers of Saint John who had arrived two years earlier. The monastery is now supported by the association "Le Ritiru," of which Alain Peyrefitte was honorary president!
Corbara Monastery is a place of great historical and cultural importance for Corsica. It bears witness to the island's religious history and its architectural heritage. It is also a place for meetings and cultural exchanges thanks to its programming of events such as concerts, exhibitions, and conferences.
A brief history of the Congregation of Saint John
The Congregation of Saint John is an apostolic religious institute founded in 1975. The brothers, affectionately called the "little grays", serve the Church by leading a life of fraternal communion directed toward mission. Together with the Apostolic Sisters of Saint John, the Contemplative Sisters, and the secular oblates, they form the great Family of Saint John.
It is therefore at the heart of a religious and conventual life that guests are welcomed by brothers of different nationalities and ages, united by the same spirit, following the example of Saint John. At Corbara Monastery, the brothers ensure, in addition to welcoming spiritual retreats, the ministry to 9 parishes surrounding the monastery and participate in school chaplaincy activities!
And to discover another place run by the Congregation of Saint John (but in Burgundy this time), visit Notre-Dame de Rimont Priory by clicking here!
What to expect during your stay
Making a spiritual retreat on the Island of Beauty in Corsica
The Brothers of Saint John arrived in 1992 at Corbara Monastery in Corsica to continue the work of the Dominicans and ensure a welcoming ministry for individual retreats, groups, or families.
The monastery is thus open to visitors and offers spiritual retreats for people seeking silence and contemplation in a magnificent setting, with views of the sea and surrounding mountains. The Brothers also welcome passing pilgrims who seek spiritual renewal.
Welcome at Saint Dominic Monastery
The monastery consists of several buildings, including the church, the cloister, the monks' cells, and the chapter house. The church, dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, is remarkable for its baroque facade and richly decorated interior. The cloister is a beautiful example of monastic architecture with its arcades and stone columns.
During your stay, the brothers offer teachings, times of prayer and meditation, as well as individual spiritual direction. They also pay special attention to your physical well-being by providing comfortable accommodations, quality food, and opportunities to relax in the surrounding area!
Everything is carefully prepared so that your soul and body can find renewal!
It is advisable to have a vehicle to get around the monastery area. If you come from Île Rousse, you should allow about 15 minutes of travel time, while from Calvi, you should allow about 30 minutes.
If you do not have your own means of transportation and if the brothers are available, they can pick you up for a contribution of €20 from the boat or the Île Rousse train station, or €35 from Calvi-Sainte Catherine Airport.
Geography and activities
In the heart of Corsica, places to visit around the monastery
Corbara is located on the northwest coast of Corsica, near Île Rousse! There are many things to see and do in the surrounding area, whether you're interested in nature, culture, or beaches!
- Bodri Beach: located just a few kilometers from Corbara, this fine sand beach is highly appreciated for its beauty and turquoise water! Ghjunchitu Beach nearby is also another beautiful beach, accessible by car or boat.
- The village of Sant'Antonino: perched on a hill about 10 km from Corbara, this medieval village is classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" and offers panoramic views of the mountains and sea
- The town of Île Rousse: this lively town is located just 5 km from Corbara! It's a charming coastal town situated on the northwest coast of Corsica. It takes its name from the red rocks that line its fine sand beach. The town has a picturesque harbor, cobbled streets, and typical architecture of the region. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy the sun, the sea, and Corsican culture.
- Scandola Nature Reserve: located about 30 km from Corbara, this nature reserve is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its natural beauty and its unique fauna and flora
- Cap Corse: located at the extreme north of the island, Cap Corse is a magnificent and wild region, offering spectacular views of the sea and mountains
- The villages of Balagne: the Balagne region, located inland, is full of small picturesque and authentic villages, such as Pigna, Aregno, or Lumio
Practical information
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