March 2011..........

Florence: St Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery Monastery - It was established in the summer of 1995 by six monks that came from the Holy Mountain church in Greece. An elder that had established several monastic communities in Greece and North America came with them to start a new monastery. They constructed the main church, monks living quarters, a dining room and guest facilities. Soon a vegetable garden, small vineyard, citrus orchards and an olive grove followed. An elaborate system of gardens, pathways, gazebos and Spanish fountains make the monastery an oasis in the desert. The brotherhood of over 40 monks and novices hold all things in common and follow a daily schedule of prayer and work under obedience to the abbot, their spiritual father. Their day began's after midnight with personal prayer time and spiritual reading, followed by the cycle of morning prayers and Divine Liturgy. After breakfast and a rest period they begin their work day. They tend the grounds, gardens, orchards, construction, woodworking, publishing, food preparation and offering hospitality. The day ends with vespers, dinner and Compline.
To tour the facility women must cover their heads and wear a long skirt. They will provide these but it's best to bring your own. A monk starts the tour by taking you to a church and explaining their way of life, the facility and what you may and may not do. You are given a map of the grounds with explanations of the different buildings. It's a beautiful facility and will take you half a day or more to tour. You should take a lunch as there are no restaurants close.

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