There’s A Monastery Hidden In Kentucky And You’ll Want To Visit
By Andrea Limke|Published September 16, 2018
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
Kentucky has acre upon acre of rolling hills, open space, and thick forests, and you never know what may be hiding when you venture away from its towns and cities. Out in the countryside near the charming town of Bardstown, you’ll find something truly unexpected. The Abbey of Gethsemani is a monastery that provides a home for Trappist monks and it is also open for guests to visit. This property may not be what you expect, but it’s a true retreat from everyday life as most of us know it.
The Abbey of Gethsemani has been a home and place of prayer and worship for Trappist monks for over 150 years. It's situated on a large property about 12 miles from Bardstown and is a truly unique destination and retreat in Kentucky.
The Abbey is, of course, a private residence and church, but in the spirit of hospitality, guests are welcome to visit certain areas of the property and to participate in any of the services.
You can find details about visiting the Abbey on their website (linked below).
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The beautiful grounds are vast and there are several areas you may explore. Signage and closed gates or fencing indicate places that are private and not open to guests.
While simple and understated, the buildings at the Abbey are still eye-catching and its history is fascinating. There is a Welcome Center that you'll want to visit when you first arrive where you can watch a video and pick up some information on monastic life. You can also ask any questions you may have and look around the small shop that sells a variety of books and other items, including fudge made by the monks.
Services are conducted on a regular schedule throughout the day and guests are welcome to attend. Whether you're sitting in on a service or wandering the grounds, keep in mind the environment and atmosphere of the Abbey and be respectful of its sacred nature and those who live there.
Across the street from the main property, you'll find a surprising number of hiking trails and places to rest and reflect. You can pick up a map at the Welcome Center and be sure to keep track of where you are.
The Abbey is a place many go to step away from their everyday lives and enter a time of reflection and prayer. Some even take part in a retreat, which you can learn more about on the Abbey's website.
The nearly 1,500 acres located on the west side of Monks Road, across from the Abbey, are probably the biggest surprise. With lakes, scenic views, and miles of trails, this area is reason enough to visit and relax in nature.
It may be surprising that a monastery is hidden in the hills of Central Kentucky, but then again, the natural beauty of our state really does lend itself to such a place. If you've always wondered about a destination like this, or have been trying to seek out a place for reflection, look no further than this serene Abbey in Kentucky.
The Abbey of Gethsemani is a beautiful and peaceful place that welcomes respectful guests who are seeking solitude, reflection, learning, and prayer. It’s a hidden spot in our state that you’d probably never expect to find. Did you know about this Monastery in Kentucky? Have you been there? Share your experience with us in the comments.
The Abbey of Gethsemani is located at 3642 Monks Rd., Trappist, KY 40051. For more information, visit its website here.
And for another hidden church in Kentucky that is a beautiful place of worship, check out our previous article here.
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