Saint Benedict of Nursia, the first Benedictine monastery of Subiaco and the Holy Rule

Summary

This episode of 'Vaticano' explores the Monastery of Saint Benedict in Subiaco, Italy, revealing its historical significance and spiritual treasures. Viewers are taken on a journey through the holy grotto where Saint Benedict dedicated three years to prayer and learn about the holy rule of Saint Benedict that shaped monastic life. The program also features the unique frescoes depicting biblical scenes and the life of Saint Benedict, as well as the monastery's connection to Saint Francis of Assisi. The essence of the Benedictine spirit, emphasizing prayer, work, and community, is highlighted, showcasing the monastery's enduring relevance and impact on European civilization.

Takeaways

• 🏰 The Monastery of Saint Benedict of Nursia in Subiaco, Italy, houses significant treasures and is a renowned destination for spiritual seekers.
• 🙏 Saint Benedict dedicated three years of his life to prayer in the holy grotto, which is now a significant site within the monastery complex.
• 📜 The holy rule of Saint Benedict, which emphasizes prayer, work, and community, continues to guide Benedictine monks and has had a profound impact on Western monasticism.
• 🎨 The monastery features frescoes from various artistic periods, including Gothic and Romanesque styles, which depict religious scenes and serve educational purposes.
• ⛰ The location of the monastery, built on the remains of Nero's Villa, offers a mystical experience and is symbolically described as a 'swallow's nest'.
• 👨‍🦯 Don Mauricio, a Benedictine monk, serves as a guide to the monastery's spiritual and historical significance.
• 👥 The community of Benedictine monks at Subiaco, consisting of 20 members, maintains the monastic tradition and welcomes visitors.
• 🖼️ The frescoes in the monastery, such as those depicting the life of Saint Benedict and the teachings of the church, are not only aesthetically rich but also convey moral and spiritual lessons.
• 🕊️ Saint Benedict's emphasis on ora et labora (pray and work) introduced a new dynamic to monastic life, balancing spiritual devotion with physical labor.
• 🔔 The monastery's structure, with its upper and lower churches, reflects the historical layers of monastic development and artistic evolution.

Q & A

Where is the Monastery of Saint Benedict of Nursia located?

The Monastery of Saint Benedict of Nursia is located in Subiaco, Italy, about 40 miles from Rome.

What is significant about the location of the monastery?

The monastery was built on the remains of Nero's Villa, and it is situated in an area known as the land of monasteries, which has long been a destination for tourists.

How many monasteries did Saint Benedict found in the valley?

Saint Benedict founded 12 monasteries in the valley.

Which saint was the monastery initially dedicated to, and when was its name changed?

The monastery was initially dedicated to Saint Sylvester, but in the 14th century, its name was changed and it was dedicated to Saint Scholastica.

What is special about the architecture of the Monastery of Saint Benedict?

The monastery is built over the sacred cave where Saint Benedict lived as a hermit for three years, and it clings to an imposing piece of rock overlooking a ravine, providing an authentic mystical experience.

What is the significance of the frescoes in the upper church of the monastery?

The frescoes in the upper church are significant because they depict important moments in the life of Saint Benedict and are examples of Gothic and Romanesque art from the 14th and 13th centuries.

What does the 'Bible of the poor' refer to in the context of the monastery?

The 'Bible of the poor' refers to the frescoes that were used to teach the Bible to those who were illiterate, as they could 'read' the stories depicted in the paintings with their eyes.

What is the holy rule of Saint Benedict, and how does it work?

The holy rule of Saint Benedict is a set of guidelines that organizes monastic life around communal prayer, personal prayer, meditation, and work, providing monks with the tools to face any temptation and maintain balance in their monastic vocation.

How did Saint Benedict's approach to monastic life influence the development of European civilization?

Saint Benedict's approach to monastic life, which emphasized prayer, work, and community, helped to rebuild European civilization and culture after the fall of the Roman Empire.

What is the importance of Saint Francis of Assisi's connection to the monastery?

Saint Francis of Assisi visited the monastery and prayed in the cave where Saint Benedict had lived. His visit is significant because it shows the influence and respect that Saint Benedict's teachings had on other religious figures, and parts of the Franciscan rule were adopted by the Benedictines.

How does the monastery welcome and serve different types of visitors?

The monastery welcomes and serves a diverse range of visitors including the faithful, tourists, and even those seeking solace. It respects and welcomes all who come, regardless of their beliefs, as Saint Benedict advised welcoming Christ in all people.