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Monastero di Valserena

Valserena Founded in 1967

Nuns
Lodging12 rooms
StayFrom 1 to 7 nights

The Cistercian monastery of Valserena, in Tuscany, between the province of Pisa and the diocese of Volterra, is home to a community of around forty sisters of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, the Trappists. The first foundation of the monastery of Our Lady of Saint Joseph of Vitorchiano, it follows the Rule of Saint Benedict and the spiritual heritage of Cîteaux and Saint Bernard. The sisters lead a contemplative life entirely dedicated to prayer and silence, within the monastic enclosure.

Nestled among olive-covered hills, in the municipality of Guardistallo, at a peaceful distance from the sea, the monastery enjoys remarkable isolation and silence. Its welcoming guest house receives individuals and groups for retreats centered on prayer, silence, and contemplation. The community also offers handcrafted products: soaps, perfumes, creams, olive oil, and liqueurs.

Learn more about this place

What awaits you

Open guest houseIndividual or group stays · meeting with a sister in the parlor possible
Monastic rhythmParticipation in the Eucharistic liturgy and the Liturgy of the Hours is expected
Manual workIn summer, a week of shared life with possible participation in work inside the enclosure
Outdoor spacesLarge garden, woodland, Stations of the Cross path
Shared facilitiesLibrary, meeting room (40 people), shop selling monastery products

Practical information

Rooms

The guest house has 12 rooms (10 double and 2 single), for a total of 22 beds. Some rooms have a private bathroom located outside the room.

Meals

Meals are prepared by the monastery kitchen and served in the common refectory, according to the schedule of the monastic day.

Common areas

The guest house includes a lounge with a small library, a meeting room that can accommodate around 40 people, a shop selling monastery products, a large garden, a woodland, and a Stations of the Cross path.

Admission conditions

The stay is reserved for those wishing to experience a retreat. Guests are invited to attend Mass and a good portion of the Liturgy of the Hours. Passing tourists are not accommodated.

Retreats offered

The community offers short retreats for young women during Lent and Advent. In summer, a week of sharing allows participants to discover the sisters' life, with the possibility of joining in prayer and manual work within the enclosure.

Getting there

Train

The nearest train station is Cecina, from which you can reach the monastery by taxi.

Car

From Rome (3 hours 15 minutes). From Florence (1 hour 45 minutes).

Bike

Coming by bike is a great opportunity to discover the region.

Location