Certosa di Padula

The Certosa di Padula (Charterhouse of Padula), also known as the Carthusian Monastery of San Lorenzo or Certosa di San Lorenzo, is a magnificent architectural marvel nestled in the heart of Southern Italy. Located in the small town of Padula in the Campania region, this monumental complex is one of the largest and most elaborate Carthusian monasteries in Europe, reflecting the grandeur of Italy's religious and cultural history. In 1998 the monastery, for its historical and cultural significance, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park and the Archaeological sites of Paestum and Velia.

In 1306 Tommaso Sanseverino, a powerful lord in the Kingdom of Naples, decides to establish a sanctuary of peace and prayer in the lush countryside of the Vallo di Diano. He dedicates it to Saint Lawrence, hoping to create a place where monks could live in harmony, far from the clamor of the outside world. Little did he know that this humble foundation would grow into one of the largest monasteries in Europe. As you walk through the Certosa di Padula, it is easy to imagine the lives of the Carthusian monks who once called this place home. The Carthusians, known for their strict, contemplative lifestyle, built this monastery to reflect their values. The design, with its simple yet grand spaces, speaks to their desire for solitude and reflection.

The Certosa di Padula is a striking blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Over the centuries, the complex was expanded, primarily during the Baroque period, to become one of the largest monasteries in Europe, covering over 51,500 square meters (12.73 acres). It was divided into two large functional areas a lower house and an upper house. The lower house consisted of all the working areas like the granaries, stable, kitchen, laundries, and fields. The upper house is where the monks lived, and it allowed them to practice silence and meditation.

The Great Cloister is the largest in Europe covering an impressive 15,000 square meters (3.71 acres) and surrounded by 84 Doric columns. It was constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries and invites visitors to walk, breathe, and soak in the serenity that has defined this place for centuries. At the center of the monastery stands the Church of San Lorenzo, a masterpiece of Baroque art. As you enter, your eyes are drawn to the intricate stuccoes and frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings by well-known artists of the time. A large spiral staircase made of marble leads you to the library. At one time it included many ancient manuscripts and books. One of the most intriguing parts of the Certosa is the enormous kitchen dominated by a colossal fireplace. There is a legend surrounding Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor, who visited the Certosa di Padula in 1535, following his military victory over the Ottoman forces in Tunis. During his visit, the monks wanted to prepare a grand feast for him and his entourage of over 2000 people. The monks prepared an enormous omelet made from 1,000 eggs. The omelet, both simple and magnificent, became a symbol of the monastery's hospitality and resourcefulness.

The monastery was closed in 1807 when Napoleon abolished the Carthusian order. It was not the end of the monastery as it played a role in the military history of Italy. During the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815) this served as the headquarters for the French. It later became a base for Garibaldi's army during the Risorgimento (1861-1971). For both World Wars it was an internment camp for prisoners. The Certosa has since been restored and now houses an archaeological museum of Western Lucania that includes artifacts from the nearby necropolises of Sala Consilina and Padula.

Visiting the Certosa di Padula is not just a step back in time. Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or simply someone looking for a place of peace and reflection, the Certosa offers something truly special. As you walk through its vast corridors and peaceful cloisters, you will find yourself not just admiring the beauty of the place, but also connecting with the profound spirituality that has shaped it over the centuries.

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