Mount St. Benedict Monastery
Tunapuna-Piarco
Mount Saint Benedict Monastery, also known as The Abbey of Our Lady of Exile, is a Benedictine monastery located in Tunapuna-Piarco, Trinidad and Tobago. Established in 1912 by Brazilian monk Dom Mayeul De Caigny and companions, the abbey sits approximately 700 feet above sea level on 240 acres. The monastery complex features a church, monastery, seminary, drug rehabilitation center, and the Pax Guest House, a retreat center with scenic views of the Northern Range and Caroni plains. The chapel, built with the monks' own craftsmanship, held its first Mass in 1913. The abbey is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere welcoming visitors of all faiths seeking solace and spiritual fulfillment. A unique highlight is the Pax Yogurt Company, founded by the monks in 1997, which produces popular yogurt distributed throughout Trinidad. The Pax House, built in 1916, hosts guided bird watching tours and houses the country's oldest Tea Room, operating since World War II. Mount Saint Benedict remains an active religious community under Abbot John Pereira, home to about ten monks dedicated to prayer, work, and hospitality.
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Consejo: Visit during the cooler, dry season for comfortable weather and clearer views. Booking ahead is advised for the Pax Guest House retreats and guided bird watching tours. The Tea Room operates only for a few hours each afternoon, so plan your visit accordingly. Consider purchasing Pax Yogurt products as a unique local specialty. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks on the grounds and learn about the monastery's history through guided tours.
Datos interesantes
- •The monastery was founded by Brazilian Benedictine monk Dom Mayeul De Caigny in 1912.
- •Brother Joseph Kleinmann, a carpenter monk, engineered a water system bringing fresh water from a ravine to the monastery.
- •The Pax Guest House offers panoramic views of the Northern Range mountains and Caroni plains.
- •The Tea Room at Pax House is the oldest in Trinidad, established during World War II.
- •The monks produce Pax Yogurt, a popular local brand sold nationwide and to hotels, especially favored by German guests.
Historia
Mount Saint Benedict Abbey was established in 1912 after Dom Mayeul De Caigny and other Benedictine monks acquired 240 acres of land in Trinidad.
The first group of monks arrived in October 1912 and began construction soon after, with the chapel completed enough to hold Mass by August 1913.
Over the decades, the abbey expanded to include a seminary, rehabilitation center, and guest house.
The Pax House was built in 1916, and the Tea Room opened during World War II.
In 1997, the monks started making yogurt, which grew into the successful Pax Yogurt Company by 2003.
The abbey has continuously served as a spiritual haven and community center since its founding.
Guía del lugar
The Abbey Church1913
The central place of worship featuring architecture crafted by the monks themselves, including choir stalls, flooring, and roofs constructed in the early 20th century.
Pax Guest House1916
Built in 1916, this retreat center offers serene views of the Northern Range and Caroni plains. It hosts guided bird watching tours and includes the historic Tea Room serving a variety of teas and homemade products.
Pax Yogurt Company1997
Founded in 1997 by the monks as a healthful dietary initiative, this yogurt production has grown into a commercial enterprise distributing various flavors across Trinidad and to local hotels.
Contacto
Teléfono: (868) 662-2259