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Eremo San Bernardo: A Spiritual Retreat Above Corleone

Discover tranquility and spiritual reflection at Eremo San Bernardo, a mountaintop convent with panoramic views near Corleone, Sicily.

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Eremo San Bernardo, a convent of the Frati Minori Rinnovati, offers a tranquil escape high above Corleone. Once a medieval prison, this mountaintop retreat now provides stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and spiritual connection.

A brief summary to Eremo San Bernardo, Frati Minori Rinnovati

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk to the Eremo. The path is uneven in places.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, especially if you are planning to visit during the week.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the Eremo, as it is a place of worship.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Corleone, the Eremo San Bernardo is accessible by foot, though the walk is steep and uphill. Start from Via Carcere and follow the road as it ascends towards the mountain. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. There are no costs involved in walking to the Eremo.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transport to the Eremo, you can take a bus to Corleone from Palermo. From the bus station in Corleone, follow the walking directions above. A single bus ticket from Palermo to Corleone costs approximately €5-€7. Note that the bus station is still a fair distance from the Eremo itself.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from the center of Corleone to Eremo San Bernardo is the fastest option. Taxis are readily available in Corleone's main square. The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately €15-€20. Be sure to negotiate the price with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Eremo San Bernardo, Frati Minori Rinnovati

Perched atop a rocky peak overlooking Corleone, Eremo San Bernardo, Frati Minori Rinnovati, is a place of profound spiritual significance and historical intrigue. The site, once home to the 'Castello Sottano' which formed part of the city's ancient defensive structures, later served as an inaccessible medieval prison until the mid-20th century. In the early 1970s, it was transformed into a sanctuary for the Frati Minori Rinnovati (Renewed Friars Minor), a Franciscan order founded in 1972 in Palermo. Today, Eremo San Bernardo stands as a testament to faith and renewal. The Franciscan brothers have created a serene environment that welcomes visitors seeking peace and contemplation. The architecture is simple yet elegant, reflecting the order's commitment to poverty and devotion. Visitors to Eremo San Bernardo can explore the grounds, take in the panoramic views of the surrounding Sicilian countryside, and experience the tranquility of monastic life. The hermitage offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the Frati Minori Rinnovati, who dedicate themselves to prayer, penance, and spreading the Gospel. The site provides a powerful reminder of Corleone's layered history, from its ancient defensive structures to its more recent association with social conflict and the Mafia, and its ongoing journey toward renewal.

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