My mantra of  “Focus on the Higher Things” has served me well by guiding me to people and places where my chosen journey is embraced and the challenge to bring forth excellence is renewed.  On August 29, 2013 I encountered a place of serenity, natural beauty and an energy that surpasses the shadows displayed on the cave’s walls and gave way to a glimpse of the “Higher Things” – – Monastero Santa Rosa

 

 

 

Perched high above the Amalfi Coast in Conca dei Marini, stands the renowned Monastero Santa Rosa.  Built in the 17^th century this luxurious 20 rooms and suites retreat has seen many challenging times to claim is present day glory.  From its humble beginnings forged by Sister Rosa Pandolfi, who funded the monastery for the ‘sacred virgins’ of the church of Santa Maria di Grado, to its purchase by Mr. Marucci, a Roman hotelier who transformed the property into a hotel in 1924.  The last family to manage the property was the Caterina family whose ownership lasted for three generations.  They managed to conserve the integrity of the monastery’s architectural foundation but, after the death of the Caterina family in solitude and isolation, Hotel Santa Rosa stood.

In 2000 Hotel Santa Rosa would once again be giving a purpose and a chance to return to its former days of grandeur, generosity and illustrious lineage thanks to Ms. Bianca Sharma.  With its opening in 2012, the commitment, vision and determination of Ms. Sharma paid off in grand fashion.  Keeping with the history of those who came before her, she has transformed the former Hotel Santa Rosa into the very elegant Monastero Santa Rosa.  My time here was a gateway into that which lies on the other side.  Here I share with you the visual aspect of my experience and invite you to embark upon your own.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As I gazed upon Monastero Santa Rosa after walking the grounds, the realization of no balconies struck me as a wonderful and centering touch to this glorious property.  To leave a world of “separateness” isolated on your balcony and enter one of “unity” by connecting on the grounds is a glorious experience. When you come to this place, you come to a place of togetherness, a sense of true community for that is the spirit that flows through this former monastery.  Do know that here, no distant impersonators of reality reside for the “Focus on the Higher Things” and genuine authenticity are permanent residents.

And now we must break bread!!!!!

 

Up Next: In the garden and lunch with Chef Bob at Ristorante Santa Rosa

 

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