30 Underrated Religious College Towns Across America You'll Fall in Love With

9. Gethsemani, Kentucky: A Monastic Retreat

Gethsemani, Kentucky, is home to the Abbey of Gethsemani, a Trappist monastery that offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking spiritual renewal. Founded in 1848, the abbey is one of the oldest Trappist monasteries in the United States and has been a center of spiritual life and contemplation for over a century. Visitors to Gethsemani can participate in silent retreats, attend daily services, and explore the beautiful grounds, which include walking trails and meditation gardens. The abbey is also the final resting place of Thomas Merton, a renowned Trappist monk and author, whose writings on spirituality and social justice continue to inspire people around the world. Gethsemani is a place of quiet reflection and contemplation, offering a sanctuary for those seeking to deepen their spiritual practice and connect with the divine.