Monastero Madonna dell'Unione de Boschi
Founded in 1972
The Monastero Madonna dell'Unione de Boschi, in Vicoforte (province of Cuneo, Piémont), belongs to the diocese of Mondovì and to the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance (Trappists). Founded on May 17, 1972 by three monks from the Trappist monastery of Tre Fontane in Rome, the community chose a simple, fraternal, and family-oriented monastic life in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council. Simplicity marks both the way of life and the welcome offered, and the monastery retains the feel of a country house.
Nestled in a hilly area at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by forests of linden and chestnut trees, the monastery welcomes men, women, and groups wishing to make a spiritual retreat. Guests come to reflect on the meaning of their lives and deepen their relationship with the Lord Jesus, in a setting conducive to silence, recollection, and meditation, near the sanctuary of Vicoforte and Mondovì.
What awaits you
Practical information
Accommodation
Five individual rooms on the second floor of the monastery: two with private bathrooms, three with shared bathrooms. Less than 100 meters away, an independent wooden house welcomes families or groups, offering greater autonomy while remaining close to the monastery.
Meals
Lunch and dinner are taken on site. Guests staying in the monastery share meals with the monastic community.
Manual work
Participation in manual work or the monks' activities is possible, left to each person's discretion.
Spiritual guidance
Lectio divina is practiced personally. It is always possible to request a meeting with a monk for spiritual guidance or a more personal conversation.
Setting & walks
The monastery is located in a hilly area, at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by linden and chestnut forests. Numerous walking paths invite silence and recollection. The Vicoforte sanctuary and the town of Mondovì are less than 10 km away.
Getting there
The nearest train station is Mondovì. A taxi service is available, or a member of the community can come pick up the guest by car (10-15 minutes).
Vicoforte is easily accessible by car, particularly from Mondovì, located about 10 minutes from the monastery.
Coming by bike is likely to be quite a workout.