
Eremo Le Celle Cortona
A serene Franciscan hermitage near Cortona, Italy, where St. Francis of Assisi lived, offering profound peace and historical depth.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Eremo Le Celle Cortona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Franciscan hermitage near Cortona, Italy, where St. Francis of Assisi lived, offering profound peace and historical depth.
"One of the most peaceful places I have visited, a world apart."

🚗 Car or Taxi Recommended
The walk from Cortona is long; a car or taxi is best for reaching this secluded spot.
🤫 Respect the Silence
This is a working monastery. Embrace the quiet and avoid loud noises to preserve the atmosphere.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Francis' Cell
The Hermitage
See the humble cell where St. Francis of Assisi lived and prayed, a testament to his simple life.

The Franciscan Convent
Le Celle, Cortona
Explore the ancient Franciscan convent, a place of deep spiritual significance and tranquility.

Natural Surroundings
Forest and Stream
Immerse yourself in the serene natural beauty surrounding the hermitage, a true escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Plan Your Journey
Embrace the Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car or Taxi Recommended
The walk from Cortona is long; a car or taxi is best for reaching this secluded spot.
🤫 Respect the Silence
This is a working monastery. Embrace the quiet and avoid loud noises to preserve the atmosphere.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Limited facilities on-site, so come prepared for your peaceful retreat.
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely do some walking around the grounds and potentially on uneven paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car or Taxi Recommended
The walk from Cortona is long; a car or taxi is best for reaching this secluded spot.
🤫 Respect the Silence
This is a working monastery. Embrace the quiet and avoid loud noises to preserve the atmosphere.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Limited facilities on-site, so come prepared for your peaceful retreat.
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely do some walking around the grounds and potentially on uneven paths.
🙏 Open Mind
Even non-Catholics find the peace and history deeply impressive.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Eremo Le Celle for its profound peace and spiritual atmosphere, highlighting its historical significance as a Franciscan hermitage. While some note its secluded nature and limited access, most find the tranquility and beauty deeply impressive, even for non-Catholics. It's a place that offers a true escape and a connection to a simpler, more contemplative way of life.
"We took a 55 minute scenic walk from the town of Cortona. The walk there was beautiful. There are hills and the trail is both roadway and gravel. Once you get there it is so serene! The area with the waterfall is magnificent! They have little bracelets and things for sale via the honor system. There are trails to walk around the monastery as well."
Crystal Herzog
"Unlike some historical sites that are merely museums, the Hermitage of "Le Celle" is still inhabited by a community of friars. This continuity ensures that the site's spiritual purpose remains central, and it serves as a tangible link to the life and legacy of St. Francis of Assisi. The hermitage origins date back to 1211 when St. Francis received the land from a local nobleman, and who became his first follower. St. Francis cell (known for the small caves and shelters, not imprisonment), know for their small and extremely rustic attributes. These embody the ideals of St. Francis, extreme poverty, simplicity/humility, and connection to nature.
St. Francis returned here frequently being drawn to the peacefulness and and rugged terrain. His last visit was 1226, the year of his death, and it's believed where he dictated his last will and testament.
I find the sign that reads:
"Fermati
Fel silenzio
davanti a io
riscopri chi sei"
Translation into English:
"Stop
in silence
before God
rediscover who you are" to be very profound."
Erik Oppenneer
"Very spiritual place. Long walk to chapel but absolutely beautiful place and very peaceful! Able to purchase in small shop at the end some prayer cards. No tickets required. If you drive down there is small parking lot but still have to walk down to chapel. Road to parking lot is narrow and not so good condition but it’s fine."
Andrea Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Eremo Le Celle is located a few kilometers outside Cortona. While it's possible to walk, it's a significant distance and not recommended by many visitors. The most convenient way to reach the hermitage is by car or taxi. If you're driving, follow signs for Le Celle. Taxis can be arranged from Cortona, but it's wise to book in advance.
Public transport options directly to Eremo Le Celle are very limited. It's primarily a destination for those with private transportation or who arrange specific transfers. Consider it a journey best made with your own wheels or a pre-booked service.
Yes, you can technically walk from Cortona to Eremo Le Celle, but it's a considerable distance (several kilometers) and can be strenuous, especially in warmer weather. Most visitors find it too far for a casual stroll.
For a truly peaceful arrival, consider a scenic drive or a taxi ride that allows you to soak in the Tuscan landscape. Some visitors have also arrived via vintage car tours, adding a unique charm to the journey.
Yes, there are typically parking facilities available for visitors arriving by car. This makes it easier for those who choose to drive to the hermitage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Eremo Le Celle is a working monastery and generally does not require an entrance fee. Donations are appreciated to help maintain the site.
As a religious site, Eremo Le Celle has hours that are generally aligned with daytime visiting periods. It's best to check for any specific seasonal hours or closures, though it's typically open during daylight hours for visitors seeking peace.
There is no formal admission fee. Visitors are encouraged to make a donation if they wish, as it's a place of worship and preservation.
While generally accessible during the day, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours. As it's a place of prayer and contemplation, respecting the quiet hours is important.
While not a standard tourist offering, some private tour operators may include Eremo Le Celle in their itineraries, especially those focused on spiritual or historical sites in Tuscany.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is one of profound peace and silence, often described as deeply spiritual. The only sounds are typically natural, like running water. It's a place to disconnect and find inner calm.
You can visit the cell where St. Francis lived, explore the ancient Franciscan convent, and wander through the serene natural surroundings. It's an experience focused on quiet reflection and appreciating the historical and spiritual significance of the site.
Absolutely. Many visitors, regardless of their religious background, find the peace, beauty, and historical significance of Eremo Le Celle to be very impressive and moving.
Facilities are minimal, reflecting the hermitage's nature. There are basic restrooms, and a small selection of souvenirs may be available for purchase, often on an honor system.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours at Eremo Le Celle, allowing time for quiet contemplation, exploration, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It's not a place to rush.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the grounds of Eremo Le Celle, but it's always respectful to be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially in areas of prayer or contemplation.
The rustic architecture of the convent, the serene cell of St. Francis, and the surrounding natural landscape with its stream offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Capture the tranquility and historical essence.
While not explicitly stated, it's good practice to avoid flash photography inside the chapel or cell areas and to be discreet. The focus should remain on experiencing the peace of the place.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Given the often shaded, natural light, a lens that performs well in lower light conditions can be beneficial. Tripods might be restricted in certain areas.
Drone usage is likely restricted due to the nature of the site as a religious hermitage and its proximity to natural areas. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a weekday morning when it's less likely to be crowded. Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The journey itself, perhaps by car, can be part of the adventure, allowing you to point out the Tuscan landscape. It's an experience that can foster a sense of wonder and introduce children to the concept of historical and religious sites in a calm, contemplative setting.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Embrace the opportunity to experience the hermitage at your own pace. The honor system for souvenirs is a testament to the trust and simplicity of the place, which can be a refreshing experience for a solo traveler. It’s a chance to reflect on life, history, and spirituality in a truly serene setting, far from the usual tourist crowds.
🚗 Road Trippers & Vintage Car Enthusiasts
Consider incorporating a visit to Eremo Le Celle into a broader itinerary that includes Cortona and other nearby Tuscan towns. The contrast between the lively town and the serene hermitage can be quite striking. It’s a destination that offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a memorable stop on any Tuscan adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Eremo Le Celle
Visitors often speak of an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility upon arriving at Eremo Le Celle. The natural setting, nestled in the woods by a stream, contributes to this serene atmosphere. This seclusion was intentional, providing a space for prayer, contemplation, and a deep connection with nature, which was central to Franciscan spirituality. The simplicity of the architecture and the preserved living spaces of the friars further enhance this feeling of stepping back in time to a more austere and spiritual existence.
Even for those not of Catholic faith, the hermitage offers a unique experience. The profound silence, broken only by the sounds of nature, creates an environment conducive to introspection and a break from the modern world's constant noise. The historical weight of the site, combined with its natural beauty, makes Eremo Le Celle a destination that resonates with many, offering a moment of quiet reflection and a glimpse into a life dedicated to spiritual pursuits.
Experiencing the Tranquility: What to Expect
When you visit, be prepared for a simple and unadorned experience. The hermitage is a living religious community, and its charm lies in its authenticity and lack of commercialization. You'll find basic facilities, and any souvenirs are often sold on an honor system, where you take what you need and leave the payment. This self-reliance and trust are part of the unique charm of the place, reinforcing the sense of peace and community.
To truly appreciate Eremo Le Celle, approach it with an open mind and a willingness to embrace its quietude. It's not a place for loud conversations or hurried sightseeing. Instead, allow yourself to be present, to absorb the atmosphere, and to connect with the history and spirituality of this special Franciscan site. The experience is less about ticking off sights and more about feeling the profound sense of peace it offers.



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