Unlike most ‘holy’ places, this actually had the feeling of being a holy place, especially in the monastic quarters. A lovely, refreshing place to visit.

Difficult to write a review for a place that was in the beginning inspirational and left me feeling repulsed at the end. Outstanding preservation of a holy site and a dedication to a man who did without, served the poor and encouraged a minimalist lifestyle. The grounds were lovely on this sunny February day and not a site to miss in Paola, even as a non catholic I found it an inspiration. That was until we reached the grotesque, modern part of the grounds. I couldn’t help thinking how distressed San Francesco of Paola might be to see something so ostentatious and expensive built in his name when that money could have been better spent serving the poor. Weren’t 18 churches in Paola enough?? Skip The New Building