A friend of ours told us about a monastery near Tucson. We went there a couple of weeks ago and the visit was very worthwhile. It is the St Anthony's Greek Orthodox Monastery, about 9 miles southeast of Florence, and just a little more than an hour from Tucson. Six Greek monks came to Arizona in 1995, what they've built there since then is very impressive. There are several small churches and chapels (some of which visitors are not allowed into), peaceful, flower-lined walkways with many fountains, and large plantings of olives and citrus on portions of the surrounding over 50 acres. The churches have beautiful intricate hand-carvings in wood (actually brought in from Greece), ornate tiling in colorful granites and marbles, and amazing icons lining many of the walls. There are approximately 40 monks currently there full time. They live a life of silence, study, contemplation, and performing life-chores such as cleaning, grounds maintenance, and gardening.
The very serious minded visitor can stay over and partake of the monastic life for a few days, a quiet life, no outside distractions, time for introspection, and simple healthy good food. This food is not offered to the day visitor; but there is a good Greek restaurant in Florence that we liked. We went to have lunch there after our visit to the monastery. Even in the brief time we were at the monastery, we felt the peace and calm of the surroundings. The place continues to develop; additional small churches and housing for guests are being built.
You can spend a good day there. Check out their website: www.stanthonysmonastery.org
