Camaldolese

The Camaldolese are a branch of the Benedictine monastic order. They were founded by Saint Romuald in the 11th century in Italy. The order's origins are rooted in a desire for a more eremitical, or hermit-like, form of monastic life, combined with a communal aspect. The first Camaldolese monastery was established at the Hermitage of Camaldoli in the Apennine Mountains, which gave the order its name. A key characteristic of the Camaldolese rule is the balance between solitude and community living. Monks, known as Camaldolese hermits, live in individual cells, dedicating themselves to prayer, contemplation, and manual labor. However, they also gather for communal prayer and meals at specific times. The order emphasizes spiritual discipline, silence, and a rigorous asceticism. Over the centuries, the Camaldolese have established monasteries and hermitages in various parts of Europe and beyond. Their spirituality draws heavily on the writings of early desert fathers and mothers and the tradition of Benedictine monasticism. The Camaldolese celebrate the Divine Office and engage in scholarly pursuits and hospitality. The order has maintained a relatively small but dedicated membership throughout its history, seeking a deep spiritual union with God through a life of prayer and solitude within a structured community.