Monastery of the Hermit

It is said that St. Benedict of Nursia (C.480-547) was so upset by the immorality of society in Rome that he gave up his studies there and chose the life of an ascetic monk in the pursuit of personal holiness. Living as a hermit, in isolation, he settled in a cave, also known as Sacro Speco near the rugged region of Subiaco. Setting as an example with his zeal, he began to attract followers. 

While the people of the monastery still follows the literal observance of the rule of St. Benedict this modern design allows them to continue that tradition in a more innovative space.  The architecture is hidden within the sloped landscape to emphasize the separation from “the immorality of society”. The program utilizes the whole site in order to create a journey towards the monastery.  As you walk along the path, the history and religion of the monks are reveled and a better understanding for the practice can be acknowledged.