Castle in the Sky

Over one thousand feet above the town below, the Abbey of Monte Cassino was established 1500 years ago by Benedict of Nursia.  Built over many years by the monks who lived a life of prayerful work, this structure of devastated in World War II during the battle of Monte Cassino in 1944.
Now rebuilt it sits offer sanctuary to all who come to visit.

As we rested in the peaceful silence of the nave of the chapel, it became apparent that something was about to happen. Monks appeared from all corners and as the church bells ended their tolling at 4:00 p.m. the monks began their melodic and prayerful chant. What a treated for the senses.

As we retreated to catch our bus for the ride down the narrow and windy road back to town, the setting sun fell onto the courtyard casting shadows in some corners and offering illumination to others. 

These Benedictine monks certainly understand that food for the soul needs to appeal to all of the senses.