I n the same area, both the Santuario del Volto Santo and the Convento dell'Osservanza offer hospitality to guests. Neither is an artistic treasure of the level of San Giovanni in Venere, but the Convento dell'Osservanza has a beautiful setting in a thick hillside forest. I n Teramo province, the Convento di Santa Maria in Colleromano is also in an idyllic spot, on a slope overlooking the beautiful hill town of Penne. In the early 1300s, this was an important Benedictine abbey, and you can visit its Gothic church, which harbors several lovely 15th-century frescoes and paintings and a Baroque altar. There's also a medieval cloister and an excellent library.
S taying in a monastery can be a low-cost, unique way to experience Italy.
There are some rules to follow, however. Also, find out if there's a set fee or merely a voluntary donation. O nce you are there, remember that you are in a house of God. Mass. The best rule of thumb for a convent stay is to approach it as a spiritual experience. If you do, your expectations will not fail you.